How Do You Cut Fret Slots?

There are a few different ways that you can cut fret slots into your fingerboard, and the method you choose will ultimately be determined by the tools and materials you have available to you. If you have access to a router, this is definitely the easiest way to go about it.

Simply rout out a channel the same width as your fretwire, and then use a saw to cut the channels at the desired length.

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If you don’t have a router, or if you’re looking for a more DIY approach, you can use a Dremel tool or similar rotary tool to slowly grind away at the fingerboard until you’ve created a channel wide enough to accommodate your fretwire. This method takes quite a bit more time and patience, but it’s certainly doable.

Once your channels are cut, you’ll need to countersink them so that the frets will sit flush with the surface of the fingerboard. This can be done with a countersink bit in a drill, or with a chisel if you’re feeling brave.

Once the countersinks are complete, simply press the frets into place and voila! You’ve successfully installed new frets into your guitar.