Creating a new body for a bass guitar inspired by the guitars and style of Prince.

Step 1: The Base of the Bass

This project was for all intents and purposes a body swap of a cheap bass guitar I got off ebay like the one pictured. It contained standard electronic components for an electric PJ bass guitar with the addition of a three way toggle switch. The electrics, neck, bridge and various fitting were all salvaged and the body discarded.

Step 2: Making the New Body

I don't own a router so I opted for a layer construction of the body. Using two layers of MDF and one of plywood I could get the thickness I need and cut out channels for the wires and other electronics.

Step 3: Paint and Fitting the Parts

The body was primed sand painted its base colour just using rattle cans. The salvaged electronics, bridge, neck and strings from the old bass were then installed to check the fit.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Having removed all the components, the final paint was added to make the bass stand out even more. Finally the components were reinstalled and wired up as per the stock guitar.

The weight of the body gave the bass a nice sustain and the super low action made it a dream to play despite its ragged looks.