How to re-fret an acoustic guitar: Martin D-41

[elpguitargirl]

Hello!  Thanks for the video...just one question, are you thee Graham Parker from Graham Parker and the Rumour?

[Stratplayer1993]

why do frets not stick in all the way, what can I do to fix it?

[yoheff988]

you should allways use heat when taking frets out!

[grahamparkerluthier]

@yoheff988

Not always, there is no set rule.

I would advise using heat on a fingerboard that is dry and brittle such as on a vintage instrument i.e.

On younger guitars that have no issues such as this D 41 it’s not a problem and depends on the Luthier’s experience and confidence

[grahamparkerluthier]

Thanks for the comment.

Yes, I have seen the fret-clamps but haven’t used them. I’m “old school” with some of my techniques. I think you have to find out what works best for you and stick to that method. I’ve always used a small 4oz hammer and it works for me.

I do use a little Cyanoacrylate glue on the fret ends if needed; this can be useful on fingerboards of 12’ radii and below.

Good luck with the re-fret

[DoublePlow]

very good. Straight to the point with good info. I have done level, crown and polish. But I have yet to do a fret job. I am going to do one in about a month and this was very heplful. Have you seen the fret clamps? They look like vise grips and squeeze the frets in. Is that better than the hammer? Also do you ever use any glue when installing a fret?

[CormacHeron]

Brilliant video Graham! Really good stuff. And you're well in your element. Nice to see a pro talking about something so technical and making it look so easy :-)