keytops

[John Formsma]

Bill Spurlock had an article in the Journal about keytops. It has lots
of good information in it. I forget the date, but it's in the
electronic Journal on CD set.

I don't do keytops often, but use a router with a flush trim
bit...like this one:
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=5411&filter=router%20bit
The router is in a router table, of course. :) It's not as dangerous
as it might sound, but care is certainly required.

Then finish with a file. There are files with coarse and fine sides
which get the job done more quickly. I think I bought mine from
Pianotek, but the same ones are available at Lowes or Home Depot.

All the keytops I've seen from Schaff (and APSCO) had those
imperfections. I think you're supposed to buff them if you want high
gloss. Or, sand them to whatever gloss you prefer. Ron Nossaman
mentioned he does his to 600 grit. I'm doing that on some organ keys,
and it looks good. (Definitely don't want high gloss on a reed organ.)

JF

On 5/19/07, richard.ucci at att.net <richard.ucci at att.net> wrote:
>
>
> List,
> Just completed a set for a Lester console. What is the preferred method of
> removing overhang of keytop on sides? I usually use a file and sometimes a
> drum sander, but I'm looking for something more precise .
> Also, I noticed many fine scratches and imperfections in this set. I was
> very careful with them and I don't think I was the culprit.Anyone else seen
> the same? Schaff supplied.
> Thanks
> Rick Ucci/Ucci Piano