I very originally labeled them A-2011 and B-2011. The A model seems to match many Stradivari models in size and general shape, while the B model was a bit of a mystery.
The lower corners are quite square and the whole mold is several cm longer and wider than the “Strad” model. Here is how the outlines compare –
Knowing little about violins and the shape variations (maybe the larger mold is for a viola?) I posted a query over at Maestronet, where some of the experts told me to abandon the idea of using unknown molds** and others suggested that the larger mold might be a Maggini (or other Brescian) model. One even sent a picture of his Maggini violin to overlay with the mold outline –
Looks pretty close! Since the shape of the corner blocks determines the overall shape of the fiddle, I really want to be sure I get this step right – there are millions of fiddles out there, justifiably labelled “folk”, that barely look like violins at all and I want my OP 1 to be better than that 😉
The next step is to prepare the molds and glue in the rough corner blocks. Now where did I put that block of spruce?
* [name deleted] calls this procrastination, but I’m sure there’s a better word for it.
** Yet another example of how the Violin Building World is bound by strict devotion to tradition. There is little room for innovation or experimentation, and almost no room for a beginning builder who wants to follow a path away from accredited luthier programs. It really isn’t Rocket Science and anyone who wants to build a beautiful instrument with their own hands should be encouraged – there’s little enough Real Making in the world today.