Binding on an electric or acoustic guitar first serves a functional purpose: protection. Where two pieces of wood are joined together (front and sides of an acoustic guitar, for example), there is seam/edge that is vulnerable to damage. A strip of binding around the edge protects the guitar from chips and cracks, whilst also hiding that seam.
And it’s there – the hiding of the seam – that binding serves a second, aesthetic function. A strip around the edge adds that finishing touch to a guitar build.
Aside from the Thinline (a semi-hollow guitar), Telecasters are made from a solid piece of wood. Why then would you add binding to them?
The answer is simple: it looks great!
The first bound Telecaster emerged in the late 50’s in the form of the Fender Telecaster Custom. These guitars were double-bound (binding on the front and back) and introduced to offer a more upscale, elegant version of the Telecaster.
(You can read more about the history of the Telecaster Custom HERE)
Sure, the binding does offer some protection to dings and chips to the edge of the body, but unlike an acoustic or hollow-body, there is no seam to protect. And the binding doesn’t make any difference to the guitar’s tone.
It is purely cosmetic.
A bound edge enhances the silhouette of a Telecaster, perfectly framing its classic shape.
You can find out more about our bound PRiMO Tele bodies HERE
