Two of the most common questions I get when people find out I build guitars. How did I get into building them, and how did I learn how to build them. In this blog, I will answer these the best I can.

How did I get into building guitars? I have been playing guitars since the late 80's. Not playing very well I may add, but I can play. A few years ago I had the idea to build my own from a kit. After spending months watching videos and researching different kits makers. I thought to myself, I have the wood working skills, why not just make my own from raw lumber. So, I shifted gears to watching videos on building guitars. I spent month watching and researching details on building them. So, I got into building because I felt I could build a guitar for much cheaper than buying a brand named one.

As mentioned above, I watch lots of video on building, hundreds hours. Much of what I learned I learnt from videos. From builders like Brad Angove, Dan at Guns and Guitars, Ben at Crimson Guitars. Each of them have influenced some to my skills. However, the biggest contribution to my technique of building are Matt and Chris at Texas Toast Guitars in Colorado. Much of their approach to building fits into my skills and vision. I have spent four weeks with them over a three year period, and continue to plan trips to there shop. The first time I went out, I spent most of the week helping them build their new paint booth. Two weeks were spent working with them as somewhat an apprentice. The fourth week I spent was at a class they offer. They offer classes on average once a month, and if someone is interested in just building themselves a guitar or learning how to build them to pursue their own shop. I would highly recommend taking one of their classes.

So, there you have it. The why and how of my guitar building. Will this stop people from asking, I am sure it won't. Have a great day, thanks for reading.

Doug