How to Make a Square Guitar
Famed blues guitarist Bo Diddley is just as recognizable for his signature square-bodied guitar as his bluesy licks. The square shape deviates greatly from the more traditional slimmed down shape, the go-to body style for players and instrument builders for decades. A square-body guitar surely will get you noticed on stage, but making one requires some knowledge of how guitars are built and no shortage of know-how in the wood shop.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- 2-inch-thick block of wood
- Finished guitar neck
- Guitar hardware (bridge, tuners, etc.)
- Pickups
- Control plate and input
- Carpenter's square
- Electric handsaw
- Sandpaper
- Paint or clear coat (optional)
Instructions
-
-
1
Draw a basic square outline on the wood piece according to the size of the square shape you desire. Use a carpenter's square to ensure straight lines. Cut the square from the wood piece with the handsaw, then spend considerable time sanding all surfaces of the wood to a very smooth texture. Measure and cut pickup cavities on the front of the body as well as the rear control routing in the back. Sand the rough surfaces.
-
2
Blow away sand dust and apply coats of the clear coat as a sealant. Allow to dry, then apply additional coats as desired. Paint if desired and allow to completely dry. Lay the body on a stable work surface and finish the pickup cavities with proper copper shielding. Insert the pickups and electronic components per the manufacturer's instructions. Attach hardware to the body, like the bridge, knobs, pins, and (if desired) the pick guard.
-
-
3
Bolt on and secure the finished guitar neck according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Finished necks are available from many online instrument parts retailers, and save much time and hassle when constructing your own instrument.
-
4
String and set the guitar up according to taste and playing style. Set the guitar aside and allow the wood to settle (usually a few hours) before retuning. Make any necessary adjustments to the guitar's action, then plug in and play.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Have a licensed technician check your work or set up the guitar if you're unfamiliar with guitar neck setups.
