NORTHERN CALIFORNIA SCHOOL OF LUTHERIE
There is no better way to learn the art and craft of lutherie than by building your own instrument. As part of our Lutherie School, we offer instruction in the building of guitars and ukuleles. Throughout the process, students will learn about the theory, techniques, tools, molds, and jigs used by luthiers.
We specialize in teaching the building of steel-string guitars and concert ukuleles.
Course in building a steel-string guitar: $2,500
Concert ukulele course: $750
These prices include all necessary materials, tools & instruction (See below.)
Additional features and/or upgraded materials are available at additional cost
Topics included:
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Selecting instrument grade wood
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Bending sides
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Proper joinery
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Shaping headblock/tailblock
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Cutting soundhole & rosette route
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Shaping/installing braces
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Fitting kerfing
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Neck construction & shaping
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Gluing, sanding & drilling techniques
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Installing binding & purfling (guitars only)
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Fretboard shaping & fret slotting
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Installing & dressing fets
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Tuning machine installation
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Bridge construction & pin fitting
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Carving/fitting nut & saddle
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Setting correct action
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French polishing
Build an Instrument
Materials Included:
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Tonewood for top, backs, & sides
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Mahogany neck blank
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Rosewood or ebony fingerboard
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dual action truss rod (guitars only)
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Spruce braces
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Rosewood pinplate (guitars only)
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Binding (guitars only)
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Rosewood or ebony bridge blank
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Bone blanks for nut/saddle
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Wood bridge pins
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Abalone or Pearl fingerboard dots
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Fret wire
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Shellac for polishing
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Grover tuners
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Set of strings
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Access to all necessary tools
We also offer instruction in the building of classical guitars, electric guitars & basses, and ukuleles of other sizes.
Classical guitar course: $3,000
Electric guitar or bass course: $2,000
Tenor or baritone ukulele course: $950
We can also accommodate students who want to build their steel-string acoustic guitar with the use of a kit. Materials are not included, except for tools, jigs, and shellac. Students must provide their own kit.
Kit construction course: $1,500
Additional Options:
