I want to make a guitar, but I don't know how.?

Question

I'm pretty sure I know how to make the body but I don't know about the neck. Help please.

Answer 1

That is a lot of information you asked for, and too complex to explain here without pictures, but here's something to get you started.

You'll need to know the scale length and number of frets you want 24-25.5 inches is standard for an electric guitar. There is a fret calculator here:

http://buildyourguitar.com/resources/fretcalc/index.htm

it's also got some other info.

I suggest you get the Melvyn Hiscock book, it gives you a step by step of three different types to make. You can also go to this forum:

http://mimf.com/

and get lots of info and help. You can join for free and search their library of archived discussions. I suggest you do that. If you ask a question that's already been answered someone will point you to the right information.

Answer 2

Don't even try making your own guitar neck unless you plan on going into business as a guitar manufacturer. And if you are planning on being a guitar manufacturer, I'm thinking you might want to get some better info than can be provided on Y!A.

Buy a used guitar neck from someone on Ebay or a new one from Warmoth.

Trust me on this, it'll be a bigger headache than it's worth if you try to make one yourself.

Answer 3

The only thing I know is that the distance from 12th fret to bridge has to be the same as nut to 12 th fret. I know that there is a mathematical formula for working out fret spacings, but I don't know what it is. Obviously the fingerboard has to be really smooth, and is wider near the body than at the head end. Sorry I can't be more help.

Answer 4

My advice is to contact a luthier in your area. You may be able to apprectice yourself to him or her, in order to gain the experience you need, as well as to learn what tools, techniques,and materials you will have to posses to accomplish this task. the other possibility you may not have considered yet, is to purchase a "kit" or a bundle of guitar parts, accessories, and plans, to build your first guitar with. After assembling your first guitar, you should have more of an idea of how to start from scratch and build your dream guitar. B est of luck and I hope this was of some help to you.