Thanks!
I saw that "trick" on a photo forum, I'm still learning
I use spokeshave, scraper, morakniv and sandpaper for carving
as I said, I'm still learning the blur-trick-thing I think I blurred a bit too much on the back picture so it looks like the cover is closer to the edge than it really is, I'll get a better pic of it. But it is a bit off from a Gibson cavity because of the pot and jack placement.
I used a waterbased (black) stain that became a bit purple in the lighter areas, I liked it so...
and you know, great minds...
The covers are standard black plastic covers with chrome vinyl on them
Thanks!
I "stole" the stand design from Martin or Taylor I think.