luthier

A bookmatched maple top glued and clamped up.

The type of glue a builder uses can make a big difference in their process, but when it comes to tone, does it matter?

Guitarists searching for their ultimate instrument are an interesting bunch. So many factors to consider, so much energy to expend on the journey towards guitar nirvana. A player may be satisfied with a certain shape—like a Flying V or Explorer. Others are obsessed with pickups, hardware, fretboard radius, scale length, or fret size. I’d venture that most of us consider a lot of these things and more when choosing a guitar. But there is a certain place in my heart for those infatuated with the type of glue used to construct a potential purchase. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not listening to Ford Thurston and thinking what he needs is a little more hide glue in his tone, but somebody might be. This obsession probably stems from the mythology of vintage instruments more than any sonic observations.

Read MoreShow less

Linda Manzer (right) and Maegen Wells play one of the guitars assembled in the “Nickel Wound Chef” competition at Fretboard Summit 2022.

After several years away, luthiers and enthusiasts gathered across the country in 2022. Here’s how it went down.

After two years of being locked up in our shops, guitar makers everywhere were eager to be reunited in 2022, when many beloved industry events returned. These guitar shows allow qualifying luthiers to showcase their work and connect with players and buyers. More importantly, they’re a wonderful opportunity for the guitar-building community to come together, and I couldn’t wait to see what my friends had been gluing up.

Read MoreShow less
“Taking the Telecaster Away from Muddy Waters Would Be a Crime”
“Taking the Telecaster Away from Muddy Waters Would Be a Crime” | Why I Built This

But Glenn Nichols still wouldn’t turn down a time machine to get one of his stunning Retrograde Guitars into the late bluesman’s hands.