It is not uncommon of the life of a violin for a chip to occur, often mild it might only need sealing up , or some light dressing (scrapping or sanding) to remove splinters than might catch and then seal. Sometimes its large enough that a piece of replacement timber needs to be provided , ranging from a small sliver through to a largish piece. If the original piece is available and in good condition it can often be refitted. Many times though, more timber may need to be removed first to ensure there is a clean surface to attach to, and then a new piece inserted attached. The challenges here are numerous,
– Good attachment is need for structural integrity in relation to the stress this part of the instrument is under.
– Matching of the timber type and grain (this is often particularly challenging with very fine grain lines on the top plate lining up for example) and ensuring strength around critical regions like the neck root
– Finishing to match the existing surface finish, colour matching and depth in particular are challenging on fine instruments; where pigmentation and dyes are as individual as the instruments.
– Budget. The time required even on a small chip can be significant and as a result these repairs can be expensive.
Approaching each repair with an understanding of the value of the instrument, its future needs, importance of preservation and budget available normally present with a range of options. For school instruments and approach of functionality over appearance, but on a budget is acceptable. For fine instruments though, taking into account its value, and doing nothing that can’t be reversed are an important aspect of a repairers obligation to not only the owner but also instrument.
