Thanks Setch, idch, tdog, and GodBlessTexas (Heck yeah) for the replies.
Setch, thanks for the reply and warnings. It's true I know 1- maybe 2 of the answers to the questions you have posted. I think with a bit of research, those answers can by no doubt be answered. Those are really nice questions to take in mind, thank you.
idch, I agree with you lol. As once said, and OFTEN repeated on these forums, "No Guts, No Glory"
tdog, I've never really thought about that... That really makes you think lol. I think I am past my growth spurt and everything so I doubt my hands will grow (much) larger. But, I definitely see your point. I will not be rushing this possible project at all. I'll do plenty of research, get to really know my stuff (well, on shaving and refinishing anyway), and definitely have a go at practicing on some woods or other necks. Hopefully that last part of your answer wont happen lol...
GodBlessTexas, truth is, everybody is right when they say I'm not ready, nor do I hardly possess the tools. But with a little bit of time and research, I promise you I will be absolutely ready. I probably will not start until I am about 99% sure that I can do this. You recmmonded another LP neck to try it on, or a slab of maple. I'm sure I could get one or the other, but here is my question.
You recommend maple, but my LP neck is mahogany... Would it be different in terms of feel when practicing. I dont want to get completely used to shaving maple then find out mahogany is a totally different feel and mess up there...
You know, I think thats the best advice a novice with no tools could recieve... Thanks!
For clarity, do you mean, get measurements with the contour gauge then trace the contour gauge shape onto paper? I'm not quite sure what you are saying... please calrify. I am definitely not familiar with this tool so that could be why I don't understand completely what you're saying. But I'm leaning towards that idea for doing it. It seems the safest. (To think I was just about to get some sandpaper and go at it! )
A lot of people seem hesitant that I do not do it... I think it would be possible for me to get it almost perfect with research, practice (before actually doing it), using the contour gauges likes GodBlessTexas has suggested, and going at it slowly and carefully. Of course, I'd probably be updating with every time I even think about touching the neck with the sandpaper lol.
So heres the ( unofficial ) plan:
1) Get some contour gauges and do all the measurements of the JP LP and my LP.
2) Get some practice necks or slabs of wood.
3) Practice, oh question: would I be able to do this whole thing using just sandpaper? or do you recommend a tool to help me? Time is not a matter. I am a rather patient guy when I need to be and time is the most plentiful thing I have.
4) Compare the two measurements, conclude how much (near exactly) I need to sand off.
5) Go at it- slowly, precisely, and carefully.
Oh, I just remembered, this may make me seem like an idiot to you guys and all lol... but what about refinishing the neck again? What kind of finish is it? It seems to be a clear coat or gloss coat... What would I need to put it back on?
So: 6) Refinish neck
Thanks so much for all the help guys, I truly really appreciate it. I promise, the first things when I have saved enough money, is to start a dream guitar project, and donate to these forums. Seriouly, these forums are the most helpful and friendly I've ever been in
Oh, btw, GodBlessTexas, Where are you in Texas? You sound a San Antonio to me lol
it will be safe but it may take forever depending on what grit sandpaper you use.
doing it with a spokeshave would be much quicker but more care must be taken.
it took me 1/2 an hour with a spokeshave to take 3 or 4mm off an acoustic of mine
then 1/2 hour sanding and it was done (minus refin)
but remember theres alot more to a nice feeling neck than its thickness.
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Crap, I must have just skipped over your post Borge, so I forgot to thank you lol. So... Thanks!!! I'd really rather be safe and spend loads of time rather than speed up and take a chance. This is probably just for a person, or novice like me. You are completely right about the nice feeling of a neck, that's why I plan to research tons about the JP LP incase it's more than just the thin neck and mojo that makes it awesome. Thanks alot for telling me about the amount of time that would be required. That gives me a good ballpark idea of how long I'd take.
Again, Thanks everybody!