This small cello came in with a pretty serious break in the top right next to the f-hole, where a chunk of wood had broken out and left several cracks running through the area. There was also a sheared section that needed to be brought back into alignment. Because this is such a sensitive spot near the bass bar and f-hole, the repair had to focus on both getting everything lined back up correctly and making sure it was strong enough to hold up over time. The process involved stabilizing the area, working glue into the cracks, fitting the broken piece back in, and reinforcing everything with cleats so it all holds together properly under tension.
Top Break and Crack Repair Steps
Support the bass bar area: Brace the bass bar with a post to help stabilize the damaged section while working on the surrounding cracks.
Glue the lower cracks: Work glue into the two lower cracks and bring them back into alignment before clamping.
Fit the broken piece: Carefully insert the broken-out piece and check that it seats properly in its original position.
Glue the 45-degree sheared crack: Align and glue the sheared 45-degree crack that runs along the edge of the broken section.
Pry the piece slightly: Lift the broken section just enough to allow glue to be worked more thoroughly into the joint.
Work glue and clamp: Apply glue into the crack and clamp the repair using a mold for support along with lateral clamping pressure.
Add a long reinforcing cleat: Install a long cleat that spans the 45-degree crack to strengthen that repaired area.
Add an upper cleat: Install another cleat at the upper end of the broken piece for additional support.
Position and glue the f-hole crack: Bring the f-hole crack back into proper alignment and glue it carefully.
Reinforce the f-hole crack: Glue a cleat in place to support the repaired f-hole crack.
Add lower crack cleats: Install additional cleats on both of the lower cracks to reinforce the area and ensure long-term stability.
