Measure the length of the first stave (center or mother stave) and bend it on the hot bending iron to the exact shape of the form.

Rough carve it to shape with a carving knife or block plane.  Then shape the stave on a planing table so that the edges lie flat when the bent stave is resting on a flat reference plate.

Glue the first stave in place by applying hot hide glue to the headblock, tailblock and mating underside of the tips of the stave.  You can hold the stave in place with tape or push pins.

Attached the Basswood headblock to the form with two wood screws.  Carving is done with a drawknife and spokeshave, and the headblock is finished with files and sandpaper.  I also install a tailblock into the form, also made of Basswood.  Many makers make the body first, and then install the tailblock after the body is completed. 

This form is designed around what I consider the “standard” four-course bouzouki (tetrahordo) size and shape.  You can make a closed (solid) form or an open form.  Each has its advantages and disadvantages.  An open form is a little easier to make, takes less wood, it allows you to see and feel under the staves while you are building the body and it makes it easier to use tape to hold the staves together (although I use push pins).  This form is made of Basswood, but you can use just about any wood that is easy to carve (Mahogany, Poplar, Pine, etc.).  Seal the form with a few coats of any type of finish, and then coat with wax to prevent the glue and staves from sticking to the form.