What is the bit about being my own worst critic? To me, the biggest issues are the gaps at the wedge, and perhaps the scales still being a tad thick. Taping together with double face tape works well during shaping. You could try tapeing individual scales to a larger piece of wood while you are doing the initial thinning on your belt sander. I use screws during mock up, and pins for final assembly. Overall, I like your scales. Consider it an excellent job for your first set. You know what to do next time.