After the edge thickness has been worked to the same thickness everywhere, the next step is to outline the shape of the violin.

This is based on the model, in this case the Guarneri model, and is shaped using planes, carvers and files.

The top and back match.
Then the rough curvature of the violin is carved from the top and back. The parts can be clamped in a jig to make it easier to work.

The next step is to carve the hollow fillet in preparation for the inlay work.