How to Build a Martin Guitar From a Kit
C. F. Martin & Co. guitar company has produced high-quality acoustic guitars and other acoustic instruments for nearly two centuries. With more than 1 million guitars produced, Martin has long since established itself as a leader in the industry and the choice of many guitarists. Although popular, Martin guitars can be expensive and often beyond the budget of many people. As an alternative to purchasing a Martin guitar, assembling a Martin guitar kit can result in tremendous cost savings. Martin offers a wide array of acoustic guitar kits, including dreadnought, jumbo and auditorium styles. These kits also offer several wood and hardware choices to suit individual tastes or needs.
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Things You'll Need
- C.F. Martin guitar kit
- Hand tools
- Drop cloth
- Glue or adhesive
- Clamps
- Stain or paint, as desired
- Strings
Instructions
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1
Determine which Martin guitar kit suits your needs and skill level. Kits can be purchased through the Martin guitar website or any number of online retailers.
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2
Gather or purchase the tools necessary to assembly the guitar kit. Although typical hand tools such as files, saws and chisels can be used, special tools for guitar makers (also known as luthiers) can help speed up assembly and improve the quality of the finished product. Items such as tapered reamers, luthier clamps or fret files can be found on the Martin website, as well as on many luthier websites.
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3
Read and fully understand all instructions included with the guitar kit before you start assembly. This step is especially important in the event you don't understand a step that may have time constraints due to drying glue or adhesive.
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4
Organize and inventory all parts from the kit. Verify that all parts from the inventory list are in the kit and that each part is in good condition.
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5
Obtain any needed supplies that were not provided with the kit. Examples include glue, adhesive, clamps, drop cloth, towels, cleaner and sandpaper.
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Begin the assembly process according to the provided instructions. Although this may not be your first kit assembly, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as each model may have variations in the assembly process or method.
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7
Complete the assembly process by applying stain, paint or other coating to your new guitar as desired. Be sure to allow ample drying time to avoid paint runs, smudges or discoloration.
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8
Install strings and tune your new guitar. Allow the strings to stretch and the guitar to adjust to the tension before playing.
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Tips & Warnings
You can purchase tools and supplies directly from Martin.
Don't rush as this can lead to mistakes or a poor-quality assembly.
"Dry fit" parts to ensure correct assembly before applying glue.
Verify part placement prior to drilling holes or installing screws.
You cannot legally apply Martin decals or trademarks to kit-assembled guitars.
Installing strings before the glue is completely dry may result in damage to the guitar.
When using glue or other adhesives, properly ventilate your workspace.
