What is a Guitar Scroll Pickguard?

The pick guard is a major part of a guitar's appearance. There are many types, but none afford the guitar builder such freedom of expression as the scroll pick guard--a decorative, delicately cut pattern that emphasizes the guitar's shape, color and overall look.

Identification

Scroll pick guards are defined by their exquisite detail. They often have designs with many lines and shapes, such as leaves or vines. They can be an original part of the guitar (before-market) or they can be added as a modification any time after a guitar is purchased (after-market). Their price varies depending on the level of detail and the expertise of the guitar maker.

Origin of the name

Scroll pick guards are so named because their designs are cut into them by use of a scroll saw, a tool made specially for the creation of intricate detail.

Function

Scroll pick guards work just as any other pick guard would (protecting the body of the guitar against nicks and scratches from pick-hand movements), only they add a decorative element to the mix.

Fun Fact

Because a scroll saw in the hands of a skilled craftsman has basically limitless design opportunities, scroll pick guards allow the guitar to become a piece of art on its own, much like guitars that are pinstriped or have other complicated custom paint jobs. Some guitar makers even produce scroll pick guards featuring cartoon characters.

Warning

Scroll pick guards are not recommended for novice guitar builders. Making guitars is a skill best developed over long periods of time, and only when a guitar craftsman has mastered the areas of tone and playability is it advisable to spend time, energy and money on a decorative detail not essential to the basic function of the instrument.