Im building my first instrument, a guitar, and I don want it to look and sound like everyone elses. What can I do with shape or materials or bracing patterns to make it unique?
For your very first instrument, you will be best off sticking with “tried and true” materials and shapes and bracing patterns that have proven track records. The reason a lot of guitars are similar is that they follow the lead of the “classics,” and have evolved to give a balance of playability, ease of manufacture and that very subjective aesthetic quality. After you’ve acquired some experience, in general it’s not a bad idea to start with one of the classics and make minor changes and adjustments to suit your own ideas. If you’re making a solid-body, be careful that your finished instrument will be well balanced, and comfortable to play, both seated and standing. It’s well worth making a cardboard or plywood template to check the “feel” of the instrument before you start cutting up the real wood.
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