MIMF

Very thoughtful and informative discussion. I will print this thread out and put it in my Bulging Binder of Luthiery Stuff and save it for the day when I actually start carving braces. One question -- when removing braces to start over, should one remove the brace down to the back surface of the top...

It looks wonderful -- I hope your granddaughter enjoys it and it becomes a lifelong companion.

With all due respect to the good people at Taylor, it has lots more mojo than a GS Mini.

Looks like alder to me. Definitely not basswood. Doesn't look like meranti, agathis, or other mystery wood.

Outstanding work with lots of creative touches. Your boss must be an outstanding person.

Exquisite! -- it has both vintage mojo and modern mojo!

Looks like a fun project. I like the nods to Gibson with the Les Paul shape and the reverse belly bridge, and the apparent nod to Guild on the heel.

Looking forward to a report on the sound of the finished product. Is the top quite thick or is that just my perception?

An incredible piece of rosewood and incredible craftsmanship that makes the most of it!

I like the bridge design -- different but not distracting.