In set up, just ablut ready for the custom inlay:  

  Need to see the wood a little closer - above it's a little overexposed, but it's got a nice amount of bird's-eye clusters and a gently quilt behind:  

  Will let you know how the backlight tests go. Maybe no LEDs in eyes if the smile backlight turns out cool. What do you think?

Sounds great. By the way, what does BEM mean?

Wait.....figured it out....Bird's Eye Maple. Ahaaaaa!

I think BEM is the sound it makes.
 
Y'know- it goes bem-bem-bem ba bem-bem-bem.
 
 
 
Brad

Any more updates or pictures?  I'm excited to find out how the inlay is working out.

Everything else is covered in glue and not distinguishable, but James got the individual pieces cut while I was gone. Here's the face taking shape:
 

 
Since he cuts the Purpleheart and Pink Ivory wood at the same time (temporarily glued together), a positive and negative of the wood arrangement is produced. There are some spots of glue visible too.  
 
By the middle of June, I should be showing you another picture with the whole design inlaid and under a coat of finish. So far, it's turning out great.

oh boy!  Can't wait to see more.

Any more news or pictures?

Sure thing - here's the rest of the cat inlay, still goopy with glues:
 

 
James is working on the starfield next, then, the illumination assmebly, then the whole shebang goes into the guitar.

Wow, the inlay is looking cool.  I am very excited.

Dooh!
Mica's post on June 29 was the first time I figured out what your inlays are - very cool!
enjoy to invisibility...
Mike

James is working on the mounting circle and stars today, so things are coming together. Here's the cat, branch and leaves all gathered up in a baggie:

 
I'll keep you updated as interesting things happen.

Sweet....can't want to see the inlay completed and in the guitar.....Were you guys able to figure out a way to illuminate the smile?

I don't know if it is too late, but what would it take to get a second non-illuminated smile inlaid at the 12th fret?

Sorry Charles, but it's too late. The ovals have been glued in a while back and there's no room at the 12th fret since the regular oval is already there.
 
Valentino