Best string inlay kit?

[Christopher Charles]

Hi all,

I've got a project that I'm hoping to add both straight and curved string inlay into. The topic has been discussed here before, but several of the options for tool sets are no longer available (i.e., the LN tools and the LV adapter for router planes). Actually, so far as I know, the only option is the LV inlay tools...

Anyone know of other sources or have recommendations? Or have a set they'd like to clear out for a fair price?

Many thanks,
Chris

[Edward Weber]

you can make some of your own
https://acanthus.com/2018/12/22/string-inlay-tools/
https://www.finewoodworking.com/2013...nlay-made-easy
https://canadianwoodworking.com/tech...anding-part-1/

You can also find lots of small detail tools and bits from luthier suppliers
https://www.stewmac.com/luthier-tool...pearl-cutting/

LV and Veritas seem to be just about the only ones offering a retail version

The last alternative is going back to using a few cut nails and an actual piece of string.

[Eric Brown]

Although mostly power tools you might find something here:
https://www.stewmac.com/search/?q=inlay+tools

[chris carter]

Maybe I'm misunderstanding the OP, but LV still sells the router inlay option. It just shows out of stock; not discontinued.

[Christopher Charles]

Edward, thanks! Those are all great links!

Eric, thanks-definitely lots of goodies at Stew Mac

Chris-that might be exactly what I was looking for. Oddly it didn't turn up on the LV site when doing my searches so I assumed it was discontinued. Looking again, it does show up on page 4 when searching 'inlay' on the site.

Best,
Chris

[Eric Brown]

Depending on the size of the string you might consider a beading plane, like a Stanley 66. You can also find different makes or make your own. A new set of cutters for the 66 style planes is available from https://www.stjamesbaytoolco.com/
Lie-Nielsen offers one (out of stock) https://www.lie-nielsen.com/products...ools&node=4076
Lee Valley https://www.leevalley.com/en-us/shop...l?item=05P0401
https://www.leevalley.com/en-us/shop...s?item=05P0410 Master set of cutters $30

Maybe even a quirk cutter like: https://www.ebay.com/itm/29571177018...Bk9SR9DYpYiLYg

Look for one with different cutters and fences. The model with blade adjuster is also nice.