Official Luthiers Forum!

What material would you suggest I get?
I Have the Cumpiano book and the Finoccio DVDs but I am finding that the DVDs dont have as much info as I would like and the book is hard to follow. Not because it is not well written, I just need more pictures especially those fancy moving kind.
thanks again all.

Richard, you need to pick up the building series by John Mayes, one of our members. Also consider purchasing Build A Steel String Guitar With Robert O'Brien available at Luthiersupplies.com Robbie and Tracy are both members of the OLF as well. I also have the Finnochio tapes but learned lots of new methods, tricks and jigs from John and Robbie.

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Don Atwood
Arlington, VA

As a beginner I have Cumpianos book and I purchased John Mayes dvds. After reading the book and building 2 kits from Martin, Johns dvds have really helped me refine my method and taught me a trick or two to just simplify the method from the book.

I will also buy the Robbie OBrien one as the members here really gave that great reviews. As far as I am concerned, any little tip or trick i pick up will save me much more than the cost of the dvd.

You should get a book named "Making Master Guitars" by Adrian Lucas. Excellent book!! Well written and illustrated. Part of it gives some infromation about 7 of the most noted builders of the past. The second half is a detail "how to".

I too like hands on and video training as oppossed to books. I just get more out of watching than reading.

I have just about everyone's materials. I think they are all good and very useful. However, one thing to keep in mind. There are a lot of ways to accomplish the same job, and many times there is no "right way".

So perhaps... too much information when you are getting started will just confuse you.

I would just pick one approach and go with it. And, if you can swing it, the hands on classes are well worth the time and money.

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Brock Poling
Columbus, Ohio
http://www.polingguitars.com

Hi Barry

Just for information Adrian Lucas illustrated the book, it was written by Roy Courtnall. A notable maker, and my case supplier.

Not splitting hairs, just thought you might like to know.

Russell RussellR38573.449212963

Thanks to all those who have recommended my classical and steel string DVD's as a source for building. I feel honored. If anyone should have any questions about the steps or techniques I show in the DVD's feel free to contact me and I will talk you through it.
You can also visit my site for more info and reviews on the DVD's.
www.obrienguitars.com

Russell, Your right!! I was thinking about Adrian Lucas because I'm working with a bracing design the he came up with. I have both of Roy Courtnall's books, guitars and violins. Both are Excellent!

Barry

You are right roys books are excellent. Adrian Lucas is also a very fine builder.

The book I like the best is Build Your Own Acoustic Guitar by Jonathan Kinkead. It has plenty of clear pictures and good explantions.


Joe Volin

Joe,
I have that book too and love it. I think with Robbie and Johns DVD's, and Cumpiano and Kinkade books, you can build a guitar easily
Tracy

I think Kinkades book is good, but it does not go into much detail. Cumpianos has to be in any collection

I think I'm going to have to buy the book by Roy Courtnall. I love picking up whatever is a good read.

BTW I have Cumpianos book and "A Luthier's Handbook" among others.. I think Cumpianos is the most complete.
I don't have any interest in building archtops but I found Benedettos book very good as well.Jason38574.0190393519

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