Learn Guitar Making in the New Forest
I have some places currently available for classes starting in 2024.
Learn to make your own guitar, ukulele, or mountain dulcimer completely from scratch in my Hampshire workshop.
We use traditional hand tools and methods, without relying on machinery or pre-prepared components, with the aim of you learning the entire process of building an instrument from start to finish.
I will guide you through all the stages of construction, from selecting materials and designing a unique instrument to suit your needs and preferences, all the way through to a finished work of art that looks and sounds amazing. Each student is encouraged to express their own creativity and given tailored support to help realise their vision.
Who are the classes for?
I strongly believe that anyone can learn the art of musical instrument making.
Absolutely no previous woodworking experience is necessary and you can work at your own pace. I am very happy to teach the basics of using traditional hand tools and can recommend projects that would be suitable for any level of experience.
I have taught students from teenagers to octogenarians, accomplished guitarists and those who have never played an instrument in their lives, experienced woodworkers and those who have never so much as touched a chisel or plane.
How do the classes run?
Each class runs for three hours, once a week or once a fortnight.
I currently run a weekday daytime class, a weekday evening class and a weekend daytime class. I try, where possible, to be flexible with scheduling to suit the needs of students.
My preference is to run the classes for three students at a time. This allows each student to have their own workbench and set of tools, allows reasonable social distancing in a post-covid world and also allows the best value tuition without compromising direct tuition.
This also creates a collaborative, supportive and social environment in which to learn and develop your skills.
I am also happy to run one-to-one or private two person classes by request.
How long will it take for me to make a guitar?
This is a difficult question to answer as it will vary from student to student. Some instruments are more complex and time consuming to make, some students work faster than others and some opt to take their work home and finish aspects outside of class time.
No pressure is placed on students to complete their instrument within a set time frame – both your place and the price you pay per class is guaranteed until you complete your instrument.
As we try to make every part from scratch, and largely rely on hand tools it can be a lengthy process, but it is an extremely rewarding one.
The majority of students take between 8 and 16 months to complete an instrument from start to finish.
I am happy to provide taster lessons if you would like to see if instrument making would suit you.
What’s included and what do I need to buy myself?
All necessary tools and equipment are provided, as are tea, coffee and biscuits.
Students are welcome to bring and use their own tools if they have them, and I am happy to advise and provide a tool list should you wish to purchase your own tools to continue your instrument building journey in your own time.
Students will need to purchase materials.
You are welcome to supply your own, or you can choose from what I have in stock. I keep a reasonable selection at very competitive prices. If you would like to source your own materials I will be happy to recommend any of the suppliers that I personally use.
Availability and pricing.
There are currently places available for classes in 2024.
Classes are priced starting at £45 per student for a three hour lesson, based on three students to a class.
Places are strictly limited. It’s quite common for students completing their first instrument to stay on and make a second (or third…) It’s a good indication that the classes are enjoyable, but it does mean that there can be a wait for new places to open up.
If you would like further information, to enquire about current availability or to visit the workshop to discuss classes in person then feel free to get in touch.
