SHED ALERT

I felt your article [in issue 448] on how to build a Martin Mahogany Dreadnought kit somewhat defeated itself by showing a very well-equipped luthier’s workshop (rather than a garage or shed) and had all the necessary jigs, clamps and tools to make a quality musical instrument. Furthermore, Jamie quoted: “Making this kit was made realistically possible with the help of talented Bristol luthier Alex Bishop and his wellequipped workshop.”

My point is, if you want a great and unique guitar, get one hand-made by a quality luthier, like I did earlier this year. My build was inspired by the Martin 000-28VS but with my own choice of woods – Bolivian Rosa back and sides, European spruce top, ebony fingerboard and bridge. It’s a joy to play, even for a 75-year-old learner – and it is even built left-handed. John Raybould, via email Thanks for your thoughts, John – I think the point of the Martin kit is not to save yourself money building the guitar of your dreams in your own home, but more about discovering the pleasure of building guitars by making the initial learning curve a bit easier. But, yes, you do need to obtain or make tools and jigs to get an acceptable result and it helps to have some seasoned advice as you embark on the build, for sure. But we see no reason why such a home workshop shouldn’t be based out of a garage as the workspace required isn’t huge. With a bit of hunting about, the specialist tools needn’t cost a prohibitive amount of money. Even so, a kit like the one in the feature is perhaps best appreciated as a less-difficult entry point into the world of luthiery, rather than a financial shortcut to owning a quality acoustic. We wholeheartedly agree, however, that having an acoustic guitar built for you by a great luthier is a real, enduring pleasure.