August 6, 2013

How To Choose A Great Set Of Guitar Plans

By Kathy Lambert


If you've ever thought about building a guitar, this article is for you! One of the most important, and overlooked, decisions of the guitar building process is the purchase of a set of guitar plans. Not only is it one of the first decisions you'll have to make, it's also one of the most important. Building your own instrument can be extremely rewarding, and result in an instrument that will be handed down for generations. However, without the proper materials and preparation, it can easily turn into a disaster. Trying to build a guitar with a poor quality set of blueprints will have you frustrated in no time at all! Read on to learn how to choose the best possible set of plans.

Type of Guitar: Before you can even begin to look at plans, you'll have to decide what type of guitar you'd like to build. Start by deciding whether your guitar is going to be acoustic or electric. Once you've gotten that far, you'll need to decide exactly what guitar you'd like to build. Do you want a 6-string guitar? Maybe you'd like to build a 12-string instrument. Do you want a large-bodied instrument or something smaller? If you don't have a clear idea of the guitar you'd like to build, take time to research and learn about different guitars that interest you. Your finished project will hopefully be an instrument that you'll cherish and play for a lifetime so you want to be sure to build something you'll enjoy.

Are The Plans Professional: Dimensions are king when it comes to your guitar plans. You want a set of blueprints that includes all dimensions. They also need to be correct and drawn to scale. The best way to ensure you receive a professional set of plans is to only consider plans that have been created in a CAD system.

Guitar Plans That Are Full-Sized: It may sound like a small item, but as you build your guitar you will see why buying full-size plans is extremely important. Details are so important in any construction process and without a large set of plans it's almost impossible to see the level of detail you'll want as you build your guitar. Yes, printing a large set of plans will cost a little more but it's money that is well spent. Only buy plans that are 36" x 48"

Dimensions & Construction Notes: Take the time to check out the guitar plans you are planning to purchase. Make sure that they include all dimensions as well as plenty of construction notes and building tips. Also, check how the dimensions are noted. Are they in both inches/fractional inches and millimeters? Ideally, all dimensions will be shown in both which allows you to choose how you prefer to work. A good set of plans will also include construction notes and tips for building. Sometimes drawings alone aren't enough to give you what you need. You'll want some direction from the plan designer to help you along the way.

As you build a guitar, there are lots of decisions that you'll have to make. Buying plans is the first and one of the most important decisions that you'll make. Choose a good set of guitar blueprints and you'll enjoy building your guitar and end up with an instrument that you will enjoy for years to come.




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