Custom guitar and instrument builder

Working and hobbyist musicians, collectors, and small local music shops that want something unique.

A deposit up front and the balance on delivery for each custom build, plus repairs, setups and modifications between builds.

• Woodworking and finishing
• Patience and attention to detail
• Playing or understanding the instrument
• Talking through a design with a customer

• Check zoning, home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules before running a workshop at home
• Wood dust, finishes and solvents need ventilation, fire safety and proper protective equipment
• Check whether you need product liability insurance and a state sales tax permit
• Do not copy famous brand names, logos or headstock shapes, as trademark rules can apply
• Check rules on imported tonewoods, as some species have trade restrictions
• Build times are long, so take deposits and set clear delivery dates

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your tools, the woods you buy and how you equip your workshop, including ventilation and safety gear for dust and finishes.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many instruments you finish and the prices you charge. Build times are long, so taking deposits and setting clear delivery dates is wise.

Check zoning, home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules before working at home, and whether you need product liability insurance and a state sales tax permit. Also check trademark rules on brand names and headstock shapes, and trade restrictions on imported tonewoods.