first time keytops

[Tom Cole]

Pat Neely wrote:
> 
> I'm seeking advise on to or not to do a set of keytops, is it
> relatively possible to do a very good job the first time, and what
> seems to be the criterion to doing a very good job????????  thank you
> Pat Neely  I have replaced a few missing key tops and have purchased
> the files from Schaff.

My reaction to your first question, not having any clues about your
ability and tool supply (other than files), is probably not. Since there
are many people in PTG who do a wonderful job of keytop replacement, you
might consider developing a relationship with such a person (e.g.,
Yvonne Ashmore in Grass Valley does excellent work). You didn't say
whether the keytop job in question would be on a customer's piano. If
so, then I'd go with an experienced tech for now and do my first job on
an old upright purchased for experimental work.

Some considerations for accomplishing a very good job that come to mind:
tops of keysticks planed down (flat and level) to accomodate the
increased thickness of the new keytops (to preserve white/black key
relationship); use of machinery to trim and notch the new keytops (files
mostly used to break the edges and doing final touchup); 1/16" gap
between the "head" of the white key and the front of the black; 1/16 -
3/32" overhang in front (with consistant overhang, bass to treble); glue
that will stand up to horseplay and will last many decades of wet/dry
weather cycles; keytops trimmed flush with key sides but full width of
key.

There were some very good articles written in the Journal describing
this procedure (March, May and June, '91 issues) which you might want to
read. If you use this method, you will have a much better chance at
doing a very good job the first time.

Good luck,

Tom

ps: If you're going to order some keytops and give it a go, get two sets
of whatever style you choose so that you can afford to ruin some.
-- 
Thomas A. Cole, RPT
Santa Cruz, CA
mailto:tcole@cruzio.com