How to make a Kite Guitar - Revision history

Zhenlige: /* Frequencies */supplement

2025-12-10T16:37:39Z

Frequencies: supplement

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:37, 10 December 2025
Line 2,134:		Line 2,134:

	===Frequencies===		===Frequencies===
	41-equal frequencies in Hertz. The anchor note D is tuned to standard A-440 pitch. vA is roughly ~~432hz~~, and vvB is roughly the ubiquitous ~~60hz~~ electrical hum.		41-equal frequencies in Hertz. The anchor note D is tuned to standard A-440 pitch. vA is roughly 432 Hz, and vvB is roughly the ubiquitous 60 Hz electrical hum. (For readers in China or Europe, ^G is roughly 50 Hz.)
	{\| class="wikitable"		{\| class="wikitable"
	!		!

TallKite: /* String gauges */

2025-11-02T23:41:11Z

String gauges

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:41, 2 November 2025
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	[https://www.juststrings.com/ JustStrings.com] and [https://www.stringsbymail.com/ StringsByMail.com] both sell custom gauges singly or in bulk. Individual Savarez nylon strings in various gauges: [https://www.StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460/ StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460]		[https://www.juststrings.com/ JustStrings.com] and [https://www.stringsbymail.com/ StringsByMail.com] both sell custom gauges singly or in bulk. Individual Savarez nylon strings in various gauges: [https://www.StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460/ StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460]

	Seagaur [https://seaguar.com/products/blue-label?variant=42960855531739 blue label flourocarbon fishing line] is also an option for plain strings for classical guitars. A ~~60-70lb~~ string is about a G string (.~~028p)~~. Beware, 60 lbs refers to the maximum weight of the fish being caught, not the tension that you should tune the string to!		Seagaur [https://seaguar.com/products/blue-label?variant=42960855531739 blue label flourocarbon fishing line] is also an option for plain strings for classical guitars. A 50lb string is about .025", and a 60lb string is about .028". Beware, 60 lbs refers to the maximum weight of the fish being caught, not the tension that you should tune the string to!

	{\| class="wikitable center-2 center-3"		{\| class="wikitable center-2 center-3"
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	\| style="text-align:center;" \|27"		\| style="text-align:center;" \|27"
	\|vD		\|vD
	\| 11.5 15 18p 24w 30 36 46 56		\| style="text-align:left;" \| 11.5 15 18p 24w 30 36 46 56
	\|D'Addario		\|D'Addario
	\|somewhat light		\|somewhat light
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	\|25.5-26.5"		\|25.5-26.5"
	\|vD		\|vD
	\|10 13 16 19p/22w 26 34 42 52		\| style="text-align:left;" \|10 13 16 19p/22w 26 34 42 52
	\|D'Addario		\|D'Addario
	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
	\|26.5"		\| style="text-align:center;" \|26.5"
	\|C		\|C
	\|13.5 17p 24w 28 36 48 58		\| style="text-align:left;" \|13.5 17p 24w 28 36 48 58
	\|Phlub		\|Phlub
	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
	\|26.5"		\| style="text-align:center;" \|26.5"
	\|C		\|C
	\|11 14 18p 24w 30 36 46 62		\| style="text-align:left;" \|11 14 18p 24w 30 36 46 62
	\|John Platter		\|John Platter
	\|C F vA C vE G C vE		\|C F vA C vE G C vE
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	\|Nickel Wound		\|Nickel Wound
	\|-		\|-
	\|35"		\| style="text-align:center;" \|35"
	\|C		\|C
	\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)		\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)
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	\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound		\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound
	\|-		\|-
	\|650mm		\| style="text-align:center;" \|650mm
	\|C		\|C
	\|29 33 41p 26w 31 33 40 52		\| style="text-align:left;" \|29 33 41p 26w 31 33 40 52
	\|John Platter		\|John Platter
	\|C F vA C vE G C vE		\|C F vA C vE G C vE
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	== Fretboard removal ==		== Fretboard removal ==
	<u>IMPORTANT</u>: Before removing the old fretboard from an acoustic or classical guitar, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Method #1\|Fretboard placement Method #1]] below.		<u>'''IMPORTANT'''</u>: Before removing the old fretboard from an acoustic or classical guitar, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Method #1\|Fretboard placement Method #1]] below.

	If the old fretboard is glued on, apply heat and use a putty knife. Go very slowly to avoid damaging the neck. The whole process often takes an hour or two.		If the old fretboard is glued on, apply heat and use a putty knife. Go very slowly to avoid damaging the neck. The whole process often takes an hour or two.
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	On an electric guitar, the saddle points are adjustable, so the fretboard placement need be only roughly correct. But on an acoustic or classical guitar, it's crucial to place the fretboard accurately.		On an electric guitar, the saddle points are adjustable, so the fretboard placement need be only roughly correct. But on an acoustic or classical guitar, it's crucial to place the fretboard accurately.

	When gluing on the fretboard, unless it's an electric, be sure to use locator pins! This is a standard (non-microtonal) luthier practice, ~~google~~ "fretboard locator pins". With the fretboard clamped onto the neck, drill two (some suggest three or four) 1/16" guide holes through the fretboard and partway into the neck, to position the neck during glue-up. Drill the holes in the fret slots so that the frets will hide the holes. Drill ~~on either side of the fretboard~~ to avoid the truss rod. Drill one hole at the first fret slot and the other near the top of the neck. Do not drill into the body. Unclamp the fretboard and put 1/16" locating pins in the guide holes to position the fretboard exactly. If the fretboard wood is extremely oily (such as padauk wood), first treat it with acetone. Glue the fretboard on using ordinary [[wikipedia:Polyvinyl_acetate\|woodworker's glue]]. Once the glue is dry, carefully remove the locator pins. Do one final levelling on the fretboard along each string path, then install the frets.		When gluing on the fretboard, unless it's an electric, be sure to use locator pins! This is a standard (non-microtonal) luthier practice, search for "fretboard locator pins". With the fretboard clamped onto the neck, drill two (some suggest three or four) 1/16" guide holes through the fretboard and partway into the neck, to position the neck during glue-up. Drill the holes in the fret slots so that the frets will hide the holes. Drill off-center to avoid the truss rod. Drill one hole at the first fret slot and the other near the top of the neck. Do not drill into the body. Unclamp the fretboard and put 1/16" locating pins in the guide holes to position the fretboard exactly. If the fretboard wood is extremely oily (such as padauk wood), first treat it with acetone. Glue the fretboard on using ordinary [[wikipedia:Polyvinyl_acetate\|woodworker's glue]]. Once the glue is dry, carefully remove the locator pins. Do one final levelling on the fretboard along each string path, then install the frets.

	=== Method #1 ===		=== Method #1 ===

TallKite: /* String gauges */

2025-11-02T23:10:17Z

String gauges

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:10, 2 November 2025
Line 434:		Line 434:

	[https://www.juststrings.com/ JustStrings.com] and [https://www.stringsbymail.com/ StringsByMail.com] both sell custom gauges singly or in bulk. Individual Savarez nylon strings in various gauges: [https://www.StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460/ StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460]		[https://www.juststrings.com/ JustStrings.com] and [https://www.stringsbymail.com/ StringsByMail.com] both sell custom gauges singly or in bulk. Individual Savarez nylon strings in various gauges: [https://www.StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460/ StringsByMail.com/classical-guitar-strings-1/savarez-62/savarez-specialty-singles-147/alliance-kf-carbon-602/alliance-kf-1-meter-460]

			Seagaur [https://seaguar.com/products/blue-label?variant=42960855531739 blue label flourocarbon fishing line] is also an option for plain strings for classical guitars. A 60-70lb string is about a G string (.028p). Beware, 60 lbs refers to the maximum weight of the fish being caught, not the tension that you should tune the string to!

	{\| class="wikitable center-2 center-3"		{\| class="wikitable center-2 center-3"
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	\|C		\|C
	\|13.5 17p 24w 28 36 48 58		\|13.5 17p 24w 28 36 48 58
	\|		\|Phlub
	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
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	\|C		\|C
	\|11 14 18p 24w 30 36 46 62		\|11 14 18p 24w 30 36 46 62
	\|		\|John Platter
	\|C F vA C vE G C vE		\|C F vA C vE G C vE
	\|-		\|-
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	\|C		\|C
	\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)		\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)
	\|		\|John Platter
	\|C F vA C vE G C		\|C F vA C vE G C
	\|-		\|-
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	\|^^F		\|^^F
	\|24.4 26.0 30.3p 24w 28 33 40 48<br>high 3 strings in mm: 62 66 77		\|24.4 26.0 30.3p 24w 28 33 40 48<br>high 3 strings in mm: 62 66 77
	\|		\|Kite
	\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound		\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound
	\|-		\|-
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	\|C		\|C
	\|29 33 41p 26w 31 33 40 52		\|29 33 41p 26w 31 33 40 52
	\|		\|John Platter
	\|C F vA C vE G C vE		\|C F vA C vE G C vE
	\|}		\|}

TallKite: /* String gauges */

2025-11-02T22:55:49Z

String gauges

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:55, 2 November 2025
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	\|somewhat light		\|somewhat light
	\|-		\|-
	! rowspan="3" \|electric guitar		! rowspan="4" \|electric guitar
	\| style="text-align:center;" \|25.5"		\| style="text-align:center;" \|25.5"
	\| vD		\| vD
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	\|10 13 16 19p/22w 26 34 42 52		\|10 13 16 19p/22w 26 34 42 52
	\|D'Addario		\|D'Addario
			\|
			\|-
			\|26.5"
			\|C
			\|13.5 17p 24w 28 36 48 58
			\|
	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
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	\|C		\|C
	\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)		\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)
	\|~~StringJoy~~		\|
	\|C F vA C vE G C		\|C F vA C vE G C
	\|-		\|-
	!classical guitar		! rowspan="2" \|classical guitar
	\|25.5"		\|25.5"
	\|^^F		\|^^F
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	\|		\|
	\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound		\|high 3: Savarez KF<br>low 5: Silverwound
			\|-
			\|650mm
			\|C
			\|29 33 41p 26w 31 33 40 52
			\|
			\|C F vA C vE G C vE
	\|}		\|}

TallKite: /* String gauges */

2025-11-02T22:46:12Z

String gauges

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:46, 2 November 2025
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	\|somewhat light		\|somewhat light
	\|-		\|-
	! rowspan="2" \|electric guitar		! rowspan="3" \|electric guitar
			\| style="text-align:center;" \|25.5"
			\| vD
			\|10 11.5 15 19p/20w 26 32 40 50
			\|StringJoy
			\|Nickel Wound
			\|-
	\|25.5-26.5"		\|25.5-26.5"
	\|vD		\|vD
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	\|		\|
	\|-		\|-
	\| ~~style="text-align:center;" \|25~~.5"		\|26.5"
	\| vD		\|C
	\|10 11~~.5 15 19p/20w 26 32 40 50~~		\|11 14 18p 24w 30 36 46 62
	\|~~StringJoy~~		\|
	\|~~Nickel Wound~~		\|C F vA C vE G C vE
	\|-		\|-
	! rowspan="2" \|electric bass		! rowspan="2" \|electric bass
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	\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)		\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)
	\|StringJoy		\|StringJoy
	\|		\|C F vA C vE G C
	\|-		\|-
	!classical guitar		!classical guitar

TallKite: string guages

2025-11-02T22:41:23Z

string guages

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:41, 2 November 2025
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	[[File:Cable-tie frets after covering.jpg\|none\|thumb\|335x335px]]		[[File:Cable-tie frets after covering.jpg\|none\|thumb\|335x335px]]

	==String ~~Gauges~~==		==String gauges==

	A 6-string Kite guitar tuned in 3rds can be strung with a standard set of strings, but it's not ideal. The high strings will be somewhat slack, and the low strings will be somewhat tight. To find the appropriate gauges, use the D'Addario method: calculate each string's tension from its unit weight, length and pitch (frequency) by the formula T = UW x (2 x L x F)<sup>2</sup> / 386.4. For open strings, the length is the guitar's scale. The frequency in hertz of the Nth string of 8 strings tuned in the standard downmajor 3rds with a low string of vD is 440 * (2 ^ (-7/12 + (21 - 13*N) / 41)). For a 6-string guitar in mid-6 tuning, N ranges from 2 to 7. Or use the [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Frequencies\|frequency table]] below. The unit weight is pounds per inch, and is a function of string gauge and string type (plain vs. wound, etc.). <u>Unit weights for a given gauge vary by manufacturer</u>. One can work backwards from this and select string gauges/types that give uniform tensions. The formula is UW = (T x 386.4) / (2 x L x F)<sup>2</sup>.		A 6-string Kite guitar tuned in 3rds can be strung with a standard set of strings, but it's not ideal. The high strings will be somewhat slack, and the low strings will be somewhat tight. To find the appropriate gauges, use the D'Addario method: calculate each string's tension from its unit weight, length and pitch (frequency) by the formula T = UW x (2 x L x F)<sup>2</sup> / 386.4. For open strings, the length is the guitar's scale. The frequency in hertz of the Nth string of 8 strings tuned in the standard downmajor 3rds with a low string of vD is 440 * (2 ^ (-7/12 + (21 - 13*N) / 41)). For a 6-string guitar in mid-6 tuning, N ranges from 2 to 7. Or use the [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Frequencies\|frequency table]] below. The unit weight is pounds per inch, and is a function of string gauge and string type (plain vs. wound, etc.). <u>Unit weights for a given gauge vary by manufacturer</u>. One can work backwards from this and select string gauges/types that give uniform tensions. The formula is UW = (T x 386.4) / (2 x L x F)<sup>2</sup>.
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	\|Nickel Wound		\|Nickel Wound
	\|-		\|-
	!electric bass		! rowspan="2" \|electric bass
	\|34"		\|34"
	\|vD		\|vD
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	\|StringJoy		\|StringJoy
	\|Nickel Wound		\|Nickel Wound
			\|-
			\|35"
			\|C
			\|32 45 55 70 80 90 125 (all wound)
			\|StringJoy
			\|
	\|-		\|-
	!classical guitar		!classical guitar

TallKite: discuss the d-fret and e-fret, pics of the side dots, other small changes

2025-09-15T04:58:48Z

discuss the d-fret and e-fret, pics of the side dots, other small changes

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:58, 15 September 2025
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			A d-fret (3.5 fret) provides a note 9/8 from the nut. This can be very useful if using the alternating 3rds tuning (vM3 and ^m3) or an open tuning. For example in the alternating 3rds tuning, one can play a 5-limit downmajor scale by the nut with every other note as an open string, great for fast runs. An e-fret 7/6 from the nut provides 7-limit downminor notes.

	On a Kite guitar, each string fills in the missing notes on the neighboring strings. But there are 6 missing notes in the very upper and lower ranges. The 6 gaps in the upper range are fairly easily filled with half-fret bends. To fill the 6 low gaps, one might want short "[https://Fretlet.com fretlets]" on the lowest string, especially on a bass guitar. Their names run from a-fretlet to f-fretlet.		On a Kite guitar, each string fills in the missing notes on the neighboring strings. But there are 6 missing notes in the very upper and lower ranges. The 6 gaps in the upper range are fairly easily filled with half-fret bends. To fill the 6 low gaps, one might want short "[https://Fretlet.com fretlets]" on the lowest string, especially on a bass guitar. Their names run from a-fretlet to f-fretlet.
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	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb\|310x310px\|guitar tuner, bottom view]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb\|310x310px\|guitar tuner, bottom view]]


	There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].

	There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].		There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].
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	Drill the hole(s) for this string with a 1/16" drill bit. Drill a little at a time and clean the dust off the bit between passes. Leave the metal plate in place and reposition the guide block to drill the remaining holes.		Drill the hole(s) for this string with a 1/16" drill bit. Drill a little at a time and clean the dust off the bit between passes. Leave the metal plate in place and reposition the guide block to drill the remaining holes.

	The nut will need to be replaced. Making a high-quality nut is a bit tricky for the amateur DIY-er, and you may need to use a luthier. But if the new fretboard has a zero fret, the nut merely serves as a spacer. It doesn't affect the sound, and the exact width and depth of the nut slots don't matter as much. Because both the nut and the tie block holes will be replaced, and because the new fretboard can be a little wider or narrower than the old one, one has a lot of control over the new string spacing.		The nut will need to be replaced. Making a high-quality nut is a bit tricky for the amateur DIY-er, and you may need to use a luthier. But if the new fretboard has a zero fret, the nut merely serves as a spacer. It doesn't affect the sound, and the exact width and depth of the nut slots don't matter as much.

			Because both the nut and the tie block holes will be replaced, and because the new fretboard can be a little wider or narrower than the old one, one has a lot of control over the new string spacing.

	=== Range ===		=== Range ===
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	In any given key, the Kite guitar has multiple "rainbow zones" on the neck. Assuming the tonic falls in the "sweet spot" between the 4th and 11th fret, it takes about 28 frets to provide 2 zones in every key, but it takes the full 41 frets to provide 3 zones. This 3rd zone increases the range the lead guitarist has to solo in by a 5th or so. The highest frets are very tight, but still playable melodically. Chording is very difficult. Having a 41st fret makes intonating the guitar easier, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Saddle%20and%20Nut%20Compensation\|Saddle and Nut Compensation]] below. In general, if you can fit in 41 frets, do so.		In any given key, the Kite guitar has multiple "rainbow zones" on the neck. Assuming the tonic falls in the "sweet spot" between the 4th and 11th fret, it takes about 28 frets to provide 2 zones in every key, but it takes the full 41 frets to provide 3 zones. This 3rd zone increases the range the lead guitarist has to solo in by a 5th or so. The highest frets are very tight, but still playable melodically. Chording is very difficult. Having a 41st fret makes intonating the guitar easier, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Saddle%20and%20Nut%20Compensation\|Saddle and Nut Compensation]] below. In general, if you can fit in 41 frets, do so.

	There is a 'home zone" around the 14th fret that is the rainbow zone when the low open string is the tonic. There is a 2nd home zone around the 28th fret. To get a complete 2nd home zone, one needs about 32 frets. ~~This should~~ be the minimum number of frets even on an acoustic or classical without a cutaway. Fortunately this translates to almost 19 conventional frets, which almost all guitars have.		There is a 'home zone" around the 14th fret that is the rainbow zone when the low open string is the tonic. There is a 2nd home zone around the 28th fret. To get a complete 2nd home zone, one needs about 32 frets. Ideally this would be the minimum number of frets even on an acoustic or classical without a cutaway. Fortunately this translates to almost 19 conventional 12-equal frets, which almost all guitars have.

	The fret spacing is 1.71 times tighter than a 12-equal guitar. This chart compares it to the standard fret spacing. The spacing between the nut and the first fret is about the same as the space between the 12-equal 9th and 10th frets. Increasing the overall scale length will widen the spacing.		The fret spacing is 1.71 times tighter than a 12-equal guitar. This chart compares it to the standard fret spacing. The spacing between the nut and the first fret is about the same as the space between the 12-equal 9th and 10th frets. Increasing the overall scale length will widen the spacing.
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	===Adding in-between frets or fretlets===		===Adding in-between frets or fretlets===
	This section covers adding new frets or [https://Fretlet.com fretlets] (short frets that don't reach all the strings) to an already completed Kite guitar. The fret you are adding may or may not have a tang, and you may or may not need to cut a fret slot for it. A tangless fret is secured with glue or two-sided tape. You can place it temporarily with ordinary tape over the top of it, and check the cents with a tuner. Then mark the position with a pencil and attach it more permanently with superglue. Or you can find the correct position using the following formulas.		This section covers adding new frets or [https://Fretlet.com fretlets] (short frets that don't reach all the strings) to an already completed Kite guitar. The fret you are adding may or may not have a tang, and you may or may not need to cut a fret slot for it. A tangless fret is secured with glue or two-sided tape. You can place it temporarily with ordinary tape over the top of it, or two-sided tape underneath it, and check the cents with a tuner. Then mark the position with a pencil and attach it more permanently with superglue. Or you can find the correct position using the following formulas.

	To add <u>'''tangless'''</u> frets, measure X and F (or X+F and F) like so:		To add <u>'''tangless'''</u> frets, measure X and F (or X+F and F) like so:
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	Use either D1 or D2, or both, to place the fret.		Use either D1 or D2, or both, to place the fret.
	[[File:FretletPlacement2.jpg\|none\|thumb]]		[[File:FretletPlacement2.jpg\|none\|thumb]]
	~~If one is instead cutting a fret-slot for~~ a <u>'''fret with a tang'''</u>, D1 and D2 are the distances from the edge of the original fret to the center of the new fret slot. Use the same formulas, but measure X and F like so:		For a <u>'''fret with a tang'''</u>, D1 and D2 are the distances from the edge of the original fret to the center of the new fret slot. Use the same formulas, but measure X and F like so:
	[[File:FretletPlacement3.jpg\|none\|thumb]]		[[File:FretletPlacement3.jpg\|none\|thumb]]
	Incidentally, these formulas work for any edo. Just change the value of K. If adding frets to a 12-~~edo~~ guitar to convert it to ~~24edo~~:		Incidentally, these formulas work for any edo. Just change the value of K. If adding frets to a 12-equal guitar to convert it to 24-equal:

	*K = 24th root of 2 = 2 ^ (1/24) = 1.0293		*K = 24th root of 2 = 2 ^ (1/24) = 1.0293
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	On an even-frets layout, dots (fretboard markers) are placed every 4 frets in a cycle of single-double-triple. So, the 4th fret has a single dot, the 8th fret has double dots, the 12th fret has triple dots, and then the 16th fret is back to single, and so on. Thus, a 36-fret guitar (pictured) has 18 dots on 9 frets, and a 41-fret guitar has 19 dots on 10 frets.		On an even-frets layout, dots (fretboard markers) are placed every 4 frets in a cycle of single-double-triple. So, the 4th fret has a single dot, the 8th fret has double dots, the 12th fret has triple dots, and then the 16th fret is back to single, and so on. Thus, a 36-fret guitar (pictured) has 18 dots on 9 frets, and a 41-fret guitar has 19 dots on 10 frets.
	[[File:Ovation fretboard.jpg\|none\|thumb\|538x538px]]		[[File:Ovation fretboard.jpg\|none\|thumb\|538x538px]]
	The small dots on the side of the neck follow the same single/double/triple pattern. The double and triple dots are oriented like the usual 12-equal double dots. At the 36th fret, the triple dots are too wide to fit between the frets. This is not a problem if there is no binding and each fret's tang stops short of the edge of the fretboard, as is the case with the removable b-fret shown [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Even-frets vs. odd-frets\|above]]. Otherwise, ~~only~~ the 35th and 36th frets can ~~have their tangs~~ stop short. As a last resort, the triple side dots can be placed in a triangle.		The small dots on the side of the neck follow the same single/double/triple pattern. The double and triple dots are oriented like the usual 12-equal double dots. At the 36th fret, the triple dots are too wide to fit between the frets. This is not a problem if there is no binding and each fret's tang stops short of the edge of the fretboard, as is the case with the removable b-fret shown [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Even-frets vs. odd-frets\|above]]. Otherwise, the tangs of the 35th and 36th frets can stop short on the bass side of the fretboard only. As a last resort, the triple side dots can be placed in a triangle.
			[[File:Jackson dinky side dots 1 small.jpg\|left\|thumb\|339x339px]]
			[[File:Kite guitar side dots 2 small cropped.jpg\|none\|thumb]]


	Because the frets get closer as one goes up the neck, the double dots are closer to the triple dots than the single dots. As a result, if the distance between the double dots is the same as the distance between any two of the triple dots, the side of each "kite" formed by the dots is a concave line. To make a nice straight line, use the spreadsheet from [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Fret%20Placement\|above]].		Because the frets get closer as one goes up the neck, the double dots are closer to the triple dots than the single dots. As a result, if the distance between the double dots is the same as the distance between any two of the triple dots, the side of each "kite" formed by the dots is a concave line. To make a nice straight line, use the spreadsheet from [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Fret%20Placement\|above]].
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	*plastic cable ties aka zip ties (easiest to install)		*plastic cable ties aka zip ties (easiest to install)

	For the guitar string sections, use packaging tape over the fret. For the other metal materials, use double-sided ~~sticky~~ tape under the fret. Check the placement with an electronic tuner.		For the guitar string sections, use packaging tape over the fret. For the other metal materials, use double-sided tape under the fret. Check the placement with an electronic tuner.

	=== Cable ties ===		=== Cable ties ===
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	== Fretboard removal ==		== Fretboard removal ==
	Before removing the old fretboard from an acoustic or classical guitar, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Method #1\|Fretboard placement Method #1]] below.		<u>IMPORTANT</u>: Before removing the old fretboard from an acoustic or classical guitar, see [[How to make a Kite Guitar#Method #1\|Fretboard placement Method #1]] below.

	If the old fretboard is glued on, apply heat and use a putty knife. Go very slowly to avoid damaging the neck. The whole process often takes an hour or two.		If the old fretboard is glued on, apply heat and use a putty knife. Go very slowly to avoid damaging the neck. The whole process often takes an hour or two.
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	=== Method #1 ===		=== Method #1 ===
	Before removing the old fretboard, check the intonation. Assuming it's on, mark the location of the old (~~12edo~~) 7th fret on both sides of the neck. Do the same with the old 17th fret by putting tape on the guitar body on both sides of the fretboard. We'll be using these 4 guide marks to place the new (~~41edo~~) fretboard.		Before removing the old fretboard, check the intonation. Assuming it's on, mark the location of the old (12-equal) 7th fret on both sides of the neck. Do the same with the old 17th fret by putting tape on the guitar body on both sides of the fretboard. We'll be using these 4 guide marks to place the new (41-equal) fretboard.

	If the intonation is off, use a formula to convert the error in cents to an error in millimeters or inches. This formula is given in the section below on saddle compensation. We're doing saddle compensation in reverse: rather than moving the saddle points, we're moving the guide marks.		If the intonation is off, use a formula to convert the error in cents to an error in millimeters or inches. This formula is given in the section below on saddle compensation. We're doing saddle compensation in reverse: rather than moving the saddle points, we're moving the guide marks.

TallKite: /* Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string */

2025-09-06T05:36:03Z

Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:36, 6 September 2025
Line 52:		Line 52:
	Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:		Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|261x261px\|guitar tuner, top view]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|261x261px\|guitar tuner, top view]]
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb\|guitar tuner, bottom view]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb\|310x310px\|guitar tuner, bottom view]]

TallKite: /* Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string */

2025-09-06T05:33:37Z

Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:33, 6 September 2025
Line 51:		Line 51:

	Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:		Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|~~263x263px~~]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|261x261px\|guitar tuner, top view]]
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb\|guitar tuner, bottom view]]


	There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].		There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].

TallKite: /* Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string */

2025-09-06T05:32:05Z

Converting a 6-string or 12-string to a 7-string

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:32, 6 September 2025
Line 48:		Line 48:
	[[File:7th tuner topside.jpg\|left\|thumb\|banjo tuner, top view\|301x301px]]		[[File:7th tuner topside.jpg\|left\|thumb\|banjo tuner, top view\|301x301px]]
	[[File:7th tuner underside.jpg\|none\|thumb\|banjo tuner, bottom view\|268x268px]]		[[File:7th tuner underside.jpg\|none\|thumb\|banjo tuner, bottom view\|268x268px]]


	Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:		Or one could use a standard guitar tuner as seen here:
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|263x263px]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 1.jpg\|left\|thumb\|263x263px]]
	[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb]]		[[File:Classical guitar headstock 2.jpg\|none\|thumb]]
			There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].

	There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].		There will need to be new 1/16" holes in the tie block. One could drill at an angle, entering from near the upper edge of the back of the tie block. But it's better to go straight in with an extra-long bit, perhaps 6" long. Or you can use a bit extension. This type is good because it's magnetic so there's no chuck to get in the way: [https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html harborfreight.com/6-in-magnetic-hex-bit-extension-62691.html]. Make sure the bit is long enough to pass through both the guide block and the tie block. This one should be long enough: [https://www.harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html harborfreight.com/titanium-hex-shank-drill-bit-set-13-piece-61621.html].