About
Build a classic Fender-style electric guitar using modern digital design tools and BARN’s CNC router.
In this five-session class, you will start with traditional paper plans of a guitar body. You will get an introduction to Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) using Fusion 360. Then you will use those skills to create a 3D model of the guitar using the printed plans for guidance. You will use Computer-Assisted Manufacturing (CAM) features to choose tools and tool paths to make the guitar body on a 3-axis CNC router.
You will simulate creating your guitar on the computer, but to ensure that you end up with a playable instrument, the class will then go through the same processes using a proven design: a version of a Fender Telecaster Thinline (semi-hollow) guitar. There are lots of specific details, as you can see in the plan below.
Next, we will discuss tonewood and pickup choices. You will learn how traditional luthiers make their design choices.
Finally, we will cut guitar bodies on the CNC router with locally-sourced wood. You'll also use the drill press, router table, and Festool random-orbit sander. as you complete your guitar.
The materials fee of $150 includes wood for the two-part guitar body, a pre-made neck, tuners, pickups, bridge, strings, and other hardware required to build a complete electric guitar. Finish is not included, as there won't be time in this one-week class for that final step. There will be a discussion about finish options.
Please bring a laptop computer with you to class, ideally with an external mouse. Please download Fusion 360 to your laptop by creating an account and then downloading the free software for hobbyists. You can access the Fusion 360 website by clicking here.
Age Level: Teen Class, Ages 13-18.
with this:
- To register your youth please put in the NAME field your first name then in parenthesis put the youths first and last name (if different than yours).
- Please complete and return this fill-able PDF minor permission form.
- Tuition assistance is available. Click here to apply.
- BARN reserves the right to cancel this class in the case of low enrollment and will notify families of this decision one week prior to the start of the class. A full refund will be given.
- If you have any questions, email JessH@bainbridgebarn.org
Instructors: Doug Salot and Mo Ellis.
Doug started playing the guitar about 10 years ago and occasionally tries to distract himself by building guitars and ukuleles. He studied instrument building with local luthier Alan Simcoe.
Mo has played guitar off and on for a loooong time and is still trying to figure it out. He built his first instrument, a mountain dulcimer, about 40 years ago, then went on to make a hammered dulcimer and lots of experimental stringed instruments. Some were playable. All were fun to build.
