Fingerboard Replacement, Fitting and Shaping

Product Information

Instruments that have suffered damage, warping, or excessive wear to the fingerboard may benefit from a full replacement. This service is also suitable where the original fingerboard is of poor-quality wood or incorrectly shaped, impacting the playability and tone of the instrument.

Our fingerboard replacement service includes careful removal of the existing board, precise preparation of the neck, and the professional fitting of a new fingerboard. We then shape the surface to ensure the correct scoop and relief, tailored for the instrument’s playing style and player’s needs. The finished board is polished to a smooth, durable surface that promotes comfort and clean articulation.

We offer a choice of materials depending on the needs of the player and the instrument:

• Standard Fingerboards are made from Indian Ebony, offering excellent durability and a traditional feel.

• A and AA Grade Fingerboards use premium African Ebony, known for its density, fine grain, and deep black colour.

• Synthetic Fingerboards are Corene™ boards — a Swiss-developed, eco-composite alternative to ebony.

About Corene™:
Corene™ is the result of research by Neo-Ebène Sàrl, developed using an innovative composite material that provides an environmentally responsible alternative to ebony.

Corene™ fingerboards offer:

• A look, feel, and finish virtually indistinguishable from ebony in colour and structure

• Resistance to acidity from perspiration, reducing wear and maintenance

• Excellent dimensional stability, unaffected by humidity and temperature changes

• Mechanical characteristics comparable to ebony, with strong uniform elasticity, especially in higher positions

• Surface hardness and mass density equivalent to ebony, ensuring clear tone and strong projection

This service is ideal when:

• The original fingerboard is warped, excessively grooved, or damaged

• A low-quality fingerboard is limiting the instrument’s potential

• Correcting the geometry is necessary to improve string action or sound projection

The service includes:

• Removal of the old fingerboard

• Accurate fitting of a new fingerboard using traditional hide glue

• Full shaping, smoothing, and polishing of the playing surface

• Final adjustments to ensure consistent playability and alignment with nut and bridge

Please Note:
This service is only available through our Billinghay workshop. Instruments may be posted to us at the owner's risk, and return postage will be charged separately.

Sending your instrument to us?
Please follow these packaging guidelines:

• Loosen the strings slightly before packing

• Wrap the instrument in acid-free tissue paper or soft cloth

• Ensure adequate padding; avoid direct contact between bubble wrap and varnish

• Pop a note inside the package with your name, email address, phone number, and return address so we know who your instrument belongs to and can get in touch if needed.

• Use a hard case or sturdy, well-padded box

• Clearly label the package as FRAGILE

Not sure whether your instrument needs a new fingerboard or just an adjustment? We’re happy to assess and advise.