A Beginner's Guide
Acoustic Guitar Commissioning Guide
Commissioning a custom acoustic guitar is a chance to create an instrument that perfectly matches your playing style and tonal preferences. It's a collaborative journey between you and your chosen luthier, one that should feel both exciting and inspiring.
Feeling Unsure? You're Not Alone
It's natural to feel overwhelmed when specifying every detail of your first custom guitar. Questions about nut widths, neck shapes, tonewoods, and even finishes are common concerns, especially if you’re new to the custom guitar world.
With so many options available, a lot is riding on every choice you make. However, an experienced luthier will guide you through each decision, offering expert advice tailored to your playing style, preferences, and musical goals. They’ll help you navigate the process, ensuring the final result is not only a stunning instrument but one that feels and sounds perfect in your hands.
Choosing a Luthier
Your relationship with your luthier is crucial to both the experience and the final instrument. Choose someone whose work resonates with you and whose communication style makes you comfortable.
Try to play their guitars if possible – many luthiers keep stock instruments or exhibit at shows. Check their wait times and pricing early, as some book years ahead.
Take-away: Select a luthier whose craftsmanship you admire and communication style suits you.
Body Shape & Size
Body shape significantly influences tone and playability. While larger bodies typically offer more volume and bass, smaller ones provide focused articulation. However, each luthier's unique building style means similarly sized guitars can vary considerably in sound and feel.
Take notes while testing different guitars – document what appeals to you and what doesn't, considering factors like tone, volume, comfort, and aesthetics. These observations will help guide discussions with your luthier about the ideal shape.
Take-away: Sample various sizes and maintain detailed notes to inform your luthier consultation.
Neck Playability
The neck is perhaps the most personal element of a guitar. Custom-built instruments excel here, offering specifications precisely matched to your ergonomic needs and playing style.
Consider neck profiles first – common options include C, D, U, and V shapes, each available in "soft" or "hard" variants. Test different styles to find your preference.
Then evaluate nut width, neck depth, and string spacing. If you have a guitar with a comfortable neck, bring it along. Your luthier can take detailed measurements to use as a reference.
Take-away: Know your preferences or bring a favourite neck for guidance.
Custom Features
Handmade guitars can incorporate unique elements to enhance playability and sound.
Consider options like:
- Cutaways for upper fret access
- Arm bevels for comfort
- Side soundports
- Fan-fret designs
Take-away: Features vary by builder – ask about possibilities. You might inspire something innovative.
Final Thoughts
This guide aims to simplify custom guitar commissioning. While based on our workshop experience, these principles apply broadly.
Above all, enjoy creating an instrument that inspires.
How can we help you?
Do you have any questions regarding a custom guitar build or perhaps a general enquiry about our ready to buy range?