I have a nice BROWN &c FLATHER SHEFFIELD beech brace reinforced with inlaid
brass plates, containing a strong bit spring, which I occasionally use with
centre bits etc. There is some wiggle between the rosewood breast pad and
the body, probably the result of a missing washer, perhaps leather. Both
the breast pad and the body end grain are protected with brass plates, and
between the two is a tapered washer. The head wiggles due to a gap in that
assembly. The gap is a scant 1/8in. I could make a leather washer to fit
there, but I was thinking that a lignum vitae washer might be a better
choice. Comments or suggestions appreciated.

Don