
You should also do research on the different parts of the instrument and learn basic guitar repair issues and techniques. Understanding the different types of wood that are used in guitar making and how they impact the instruments sound and construction is an important place to start. Even if you decide to pursue more formal education or training later on (which we recommend), it helps to start by learning the basics on your own. There are many resources online that can help you get started learning about the materials that are used to make instruments as well as basic guitar design principles. Many luthiers started by teaching themselves the basics of guitar making and repair. If you decide to attend guitar luthier school like Musicians Institute, you’ll want to have a basic high school education to provide you with a strong foundation. First, you’ll need to start by earning your high school diploma. Though there is no one clear path to becoming a guitar luthier, there are some different ways that you can learn the skills needed to make and repair guitars. It’s highly recommended that those who want to become guitar luthiers at least know the basics of strumming, tuning, and techniques for playing.
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Though advanced skill in playing the guitar is not necessary to become a guitar luthier, knowing how to play helps the luthier get a better sense of how the guitar is used and where design plays a role in performance. Most guitar luthiers also know how to play the guitar.

Some skills that lend well to this career path include:

Though most guitar luthiers learn and refine their skillset as part of an apprenticeship, many of them come to the field with some previous experience that helps them excel in the trade. Guitar luthiers can also make sure that guitars that have not been used for a significant amount of time are back in playing condition. They clean, seal, patch, and refinish any damaged areas so that the damage to the instrument is nearly undetectable. In addition to making guitars, luthiers will repair different kinds of physical damage on the instrument’s body such as dents or fractures. Guitar luthiers typically work in one of three settings: guitar factory, guitar repair shop, or a self-employed business. A guitar luthier has studied and trained in the art of guitar repair and construction.

Most luthiers specialize in working with one type of instrument. In general, a luthier is a craftsman who makes and repairs stringed instruments. Below, we’ll talk more about what a luthier does and how you can become a guitar luthier. But those with a creative mind who are detail-oriented and like to tinker may find the work of a guitar luthier very rewarding. Like most careers in the music field, the work of a luthier isn’t something you can learn overnight. A guitar luthier is a skilled craftsman who makes and repairs guitars.
