Some years ago I embarked upon a new career as a guitar builder. However, whilst every good intention was there my new career kept being interrupted by long spells at my old one. It did, after all, pay regularly. Oh, how I became the butt of cutting jokes….”I’d order a guitar from Al but I might die before it arrives”…..being a particular favourite of many. And so, with 2011 facing us, I, as yet unaware of any lurking opportunities to earn regular money, am armed and ready to burst (well, dribble a little) into luthiery.

Here is my new Office,

I don’t have to worry about trailing leads and health and safety legislation ‘cos it’s just me and Radio 4. The guitar hanging up is “Danielle’s” guitar. A project somewhat delayed by continuous interruptions by “old career”. Now nearing the end – just sorting the lacquer and the bridge and we’ll be stringing up pronto.

The Kylie calendar on the wall is my nod to stereotypical workshop ( and is meant to be a lighthearted nod, ladies).

Here all things are considered….and considered….and considered again. I have learnt that there is such a thing as “luthier time”. That is, each hour has 100 minutes in it – each week at least 10 days, each month at least 6 weeks.

I am now the proud owner of a new bandsaw and planer/thicknesser which both nestle menacingly in the corner of the garage. Once I’ve cut and planed everything in sight I shall be an unstoppable guitar building machine – luthier time, of course.  🙂

Projects planned and already begun are a steel string acoustic, slightly larger than “000”, spruce top and amazaque back and sides.