MIMF

With the inner core of mahogany having a glue joint that is offset from that of the veneers, the veneers act as the strip of wood over the joint, albeit not as thick as is usually used on the inside of the back. To me, this makes that strip of wood unnecessary. And I've also configured the x braces ...

Thanks. I don't remember seeing your previous rosette like this before. I see you have an x-braced back. Is there a reason you didn't reinforce the lap joint area with a small strip of wood? The back on this guitar is actually rosewood veneer over mahogany and the glue joint for the mahogany is off...

Steve,

A close up of the rosette.

This guitar has been in the works for almost a year now. I built my cousin one just like it and decided I wanted one for myself so I started building. I was ready to apply the finish and I had a few important changes in my life (new job, first house, no more fiance) and had to shelf it for 6 months....

Having made a fanned fret 8-string guitar, I would suggest just making one first, and then worry about the bamboo neck part later. You will have your hands full.