This student cello arrived with several bad cracks that needed attention—not a full restoration, but a stable, aligned repair that would hold up over time. The process began with assessing the damage and deciding whether to open the seam, followed by quickly making custom molds for effective clamping. With hot hide glue worked into the cracks, band clamps and leveling jigs brought the seams flush. The following day, internal cleats were installed using a clever setup of magnets, CA glue, and gentle heat to control glue behavior. Each cleat was carefully glued and clamped in place using pre-positioned molds. Once the clamps were removed, a light coat of clear varnish sealed and protected the cracks. The result is a durable, clean repair that reinforces the cello’s structure without overcommitting time and resources. - Initial assessment: Evaluate the crack and determine if the seam needs to be opened.
- Clamp preparation: Make a few quick clamping molds and lay out all clamps in advance.
- Glue application: Work hot hide glue into the crack thoroughly.
- Clamping setup: Apply band clamps to pull the crack together and leveling clamps with molds to flatten it.
- Next-day cleats: Insert cleats the following day to reinforce the repair.
- Cleat soaking: Soak cleats briefly in water to improve flexibility.
- Cleat orientation: Use a tiny drop of CA glue to attach the cleat to the clamp.
- Magnet hold: A small magnet holds the cleat in place until the CA glue dries.
- Wood glue coat: Generously coat the cleat with wood glue for final installation.
- Heat set glue: Lightly dry the glue with a heat gun to create a skin that prevents dripping.
- Final dollop: Add an extra drop of glue to the center of the cleat for secure bonding.
- Clamp in place: Slip the cleat and clamp inside, aligning it with the taped-in mold.
- Clamp removal: Remove clamps after the glue has fully dried.
- Protective finish: Apply clear varnish over the crack to seal and protect it.
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