If you are in the market for a custom guitar, you might be looking into working with a luthier. A luthier is a professional custom guitar maker. Most luthiers will work with you to create the customized, one of a kind guitar you have always wanted. But what are some good rules of thumb when working with a custom guitar maker? Here are a few suggestions.
Have an idea of what you want
A custom guitar maker can customize every part of your new guitar. From larger parts like the body and neck to smaller parts like the tuning keys and nut, your custom guitar maker will take your ideas, wants and needs, use as many of them as possible and create the guitar you want. So make sure you have a good idea of what you want out of your new guitar. Do you have a specific body style in mind? A specific type of wood? Think of what you want before you reach out to a custom guitar maker.
Be patient
A custom guitar takes awhile to design and build, especially if you are communicating with your custom guitar maker through email or over the phone. You cannot expect to contact a luthier and then have your new guitar in hand within a few days. Luthiers take a great deal of pride in their art, and a good custom guitar maker will take some time building you the custom guitar you want. If you are in a hurry for a new guitar, then you should probably consider buying one that is already made.
Be clear about your expectations and needs
If you are looking for an acoustic archtop, make sure your custom guitar maker knows that. If you have always wanted a purple and blue guitar, your custom guitar maker should know that as well. Be very clear about what you want and need, and make sure you keep the lines of communication open.
Expect a unique guitar
The whole reason you contacted a custom guitar maker is to get a custom guitar! The end result should be a guitar that is unique and totally you. This is why knowing what you want, being clear about your wants and making sure you keep the lines of communication open are all so important. You want to be happy with the final product, and your luthier wants you to be happy with it too.
Would you like more information on a custom guitar maker? Call Fine Archtops at 612-366-7120 or you can Contact Us.