If you’ve ever noticed the elegant borders on a guitar and wondered “why do guitars have binding”, you’re not alone. This article will walk you through the reasons, both aesthetic and functional, behind this common guitar feature.
What is Guitar Binding?
Guitar binding is essentially a narrow strip of material that lines the edges of a guitar’s body and neck. This material can be made from various sources, including plastic, wood, or in some rare instances, ivory or synthetic substitutes. But what does it really do?
Well, think of guitar binding as the frame around a piece of art. It not only enhances the guitar’s overall appearance but also provides several structural benefits that extend beyond mere decoration.
Why Do Guitars Have Binding? – The Reasons
The Aesthetic Purpose: Beauty in the Details
When it comes to the aesthetics of a guitar, binding can act as a defining feature. It gives a more polished and refined appearance, turning an ordinary-looking guitar into a visual masterpiece. A guitar’s binding often complements or contrasts with the body and neck, thus adding a layer of intricacy to the design.
For instance, a dark wooden binding might be applied to a light-colored guitar body to create a striking contrast. Different types of materials, whether it’s pearlescent plastic or intricate wood inlays, offer a broad palette of design options, allowing you to select a guitar that truly matches your personal style.
The Functional Benefits: More Than Meets the Eye
While the aesthetic value of binding is often what first catches the eye, it’s far from its only purpose. One of the major functional benefits is edge protection. We’ve all had those moments where a slight accident results in dings or scratches on our prized guitars.
A bound edge is less susceptible to this kind of minor damage, especially when the guitar is moved or transported frequently. This makes a bound guitar a worthy consideration for touring musicians or those who take their instrument to different venues.
Additionally, the binding serves to smooth out the transitions between different sections of the guitar, like where the neck meets the body or where the fretboard edges are. This has the practical effect of making the guitar more comfortable to play, as the binding eliminates any sharp or irregular edges that could irritate the player’s hand.
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How is Guitar Binding Applied: The Craftsmanship Involved
Applying binding to a guitar is a meticulous process that requires a blend of skilled craftsmanship and technical knowledge. Initially, a small groove or channel is carefully cut along the edges of the guitar body and neck.
This acts as a recess where the binding will sit. Once this channel is prepared, the selected binding material is glued into place.
The next stage involves bending the binding to align perfectly with the guitar’s contours. This is usually done manually and requires a keen eye for detail to ensure that the binding is applied uniformly. After the glue has set, the newly applied binding is then sanded down.
This creates a seamless transition between the binding and the body of the guitar, making it look and feel like a natural extension of the instrument.
Should You Choose a Guitar With Binding?
As you ponder over your next guitar purchase, binding might be a feature to consider seriously. While it’s not an essential element, it often appeals to those who value both aesthetics and functional benefits.
If you appreciate the extra flair and additional edge protection a bound guitar offers, then opting for one may align well with your needs and preferences. On the other hand, if these aspects are not significant to you, an unbound guitar can still be a fine choice.
Conclusion: Why Do Guitars Have Binding?
Now that you understand why do guitars have binding, you can make a more informed decision the next time you’re in the market for a new guitar. Whether it’s for the aesthetic elegance or the practical benefits, a bound guitar has its merits.