Customs

Each one of my guitars is hand built and unique with its own sound and personality, and my custom work is no different. There are a number of possibilities that we can discuss if you'd like me to build a guitar for you!

About the Boxes

Please remember that I mostly build with genuine cigar boxes. I will also occasionally build with other types of craft boxes from various sources - coffins are a popular example! I prefer to use wooden boxes for my builds and since wood is a natural material there will be variation in grain and condition from box to box. Cigar boxes by their nature are used items and there will likely be some cosmetic imperfections and wear and tear, especially on the bottom/back of the box. This is normal and is part of what makes cigar box guitars unique instruments. While some modification is always necessary I try to keep and preserve the boxes in the condition I find them - in no way means you are getting snubbed on a quality build!

Lefties

If you are a southpaw and like your guitars back-to-front, I can do that. I normally don't carry lefties in my inventory but it is no bother if you want one made. These will be the same build quality and materials as my usual guitars, and I do not charge extra just because its a left-handed guitar.

This guitar is "Dos Equis", a custom lefty built on a beautiful black-laquered Kristoff cigar box with laser cut f-holes, snake oil humbucker pickup, and symmetrical tone and volume knobs - all per customer request. More info is in my product listings!

"Chef's Choice"

I can also just build one for you at no charge if customization is minimal and you allow me to make the usual choices of hardware and features I normally do. This is why I call this option "Chef's Choice" - I'll make you a fine feast for the ears and eyes at no extra charge if you let me pick the ingredients!

Bring Your Own Box

Some folks have a treasured box that they particularly like and if you'd like me to make a guitar from that, I usually can, and if for some reason that box is unsuitable or I need to make changes, I'll be direct and let you know. If you let me choose what's best for the build I don't charge extra for this option, either!

This guitar is "Old Regal", which was a "Chef's Choice/Bring Your Own Box" custom build with the customer's own red cedar cigar box from the 1950's. I have more information about this guitar in my product listings. The tone on this build is properly amazing!

Coffin Boxes

If the dark side is more of your thing, I can also build a three or four string guitar for you with a pine coffin box. These builds are a bit more involved and are slightly pricier and well worth it. Every single person who has taken one home has been amazed and remarked how good they feel and sound. I can dye them, paint them, engrave them, even scorch them with fire like I've done with "Cascabel" pictured here.

Each coffin build has basically the same layout because it works so well - neck through body construction, hardwood bracing, tone and volume set in just the right place. So, are you feeling spooky? Let me know!

Other Custom Options

If you want something more specialized and specifically tailored to you I can also do that. There may be additional time and expenses if you request specific colors, hardware choices, or other options, and this is the sort of thing that I will cover with you. Each build is unique and handmade so it's not like picking out options from a brochure like you would with a new car, so I don't have an "a la carte" menu or price list available. Instead I will discuss your wants and needs with you on a one-on-one and give you an estimate based on those discussions.

Pricing

Each build is different and there is no set pricing as such, and I will discuss all these things with you on a one-on-one basis. Once we come to an agreement I will give you a time and price estimate. Please keep in mind that any custom work is in no way refundable!

If you decide to have the work done I will ask for a non-refundable deposit up front equal to half of the quoted estimate before starting work. This covers my cost for parts and materials. I will also ask for your current contact information and give you an estimated time of competion and will do my best to keep you updated.

The other half will be due on receipt of your finished guitar. I do realize that life happens and if you need extra time to complete payment I will be happy to work with you - but if I don't hear from you or if I am otherwise ghosted the build and deposit will be forfeit after thirty days.

This also applies to those rare instances where I agree to take a deposit on a guitar I already have in stock for purchase - after thirty days without contact or payment it goes back in stock!

In summary, every guitar I build is different and each one presents its own needs. If you'd like to have something custom made for you, drop a note via my contact form or send me a DM on Instagram and I'd be happy to start a discussion about it!