Open seams are a common issue in violin-family instruments, often caused by humidity changes, age, or impact. While they may seem minor at first, unaddressed seams can lead to more serious structural problems. At Callier-Scollard Violins, we use traditional hot hide glue and a range of techniques—both standard and creative—to close, reinforce, and preserve seams on violins, violas, cellos, and basses. The following examples highlight proven methods for restoring integrity and resonance without compromising the original craftsmanship.

• Seam Gluing TechniquesBest practices for gluing instrument seams to prevent further openings and maintain integrity.ⓘ
  • Unusual Seam Repair MethodsCreative and effective solutions for difficult or uncommon seam gluing repairs.ⓘ
• Fixing Center SeamsFixing open center seams on instruments without removing the top.ⓘ
  • Fixing Cello Back SeamsDetailed instructions on closing and reinforcing open cello back seams for structural integrity.ⓘ
  • Cello Top Seam RepairsProper techniques for repairing and gluing open cello top seams to restore playability.ⓘ
  • Cello Back Seam FixGluing and reinforcing cello back seams externally for structural stability.ⓘ
  • Bass Center Seam RepairRepairing open center seams on bass tops using hot hide glue and cleats.ⓘ

Instruments often suffer from unique wear or unexpected damage that falls outside common repair categories. From replacing worn edges and damaged corners to restoring unusual bass bar designs and worm-eaten wood, these examples showcase the skill and creativity required for specialty restorations. Whether it’s a custom chinrest or an electric-acoustic Zeta violin, each repair is tailored to preserve both ;function and character.

• Proper Bridge Fitting TechniquesProper bridge fitting techniques for optimal sound and instrument stability.ⓘ
• Replacing Instrument CornersLearn how damaged corners of string instruments can be repaired or replaced using spruce and purfling matching techniques. See photos of violin and bass restorations.ⓘ
• Unusual Bass Bar DesignsExplore photos of unusual and unique double bass bars. See how we fixed an inexpensive bass with an unglued bass bar and broken rib.ⓘ
• Replacing Worn EdgesReplacing worn edges on string instruments with new wood and varnish matching.ⓘ
• Fixing Cracked Violin RibsLearn how to repair a cracked violin rib caused by chinrest damage. Our guide provides tips on how to fix this issue and prevent it from happening again.ⓘ
• Unique Instrument RestorationsRestoring and maintaining unique and rare string instruments.ⓘ
• Handmade Chinrest CraftingCustom handmade chinrests for improved playing comfort and instrument fit.ⓘ
• Zeta Violin Acoustic RepairSpecialized repairs for Zeta acoustic violins to maintain electric-acoustic balance.ⓘ
• Repairing Worm DamageExplore the restoration of a beautiful violin with worm damage on the back. Learn about the repair and refinishing process for previously filled areas.ⓘ
• Restoring Worn Violin TopsRestoring worn-out pegbox holes for secure peg fit and tuning stability.ⓘ
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