Are you a guitarist looking for a custom-made specialty guitar? Companies like Taylor and C.F. Martin are well-known for offering such options. This guide will help you understand the process of getting a custom guitar made, the typical costs involved, and whether other manufacturers also offer similar services.

Understanding Custom Made Guitars

Custom made specialty guitars are unique instruments crafted based on the specific requirements and preferences of the buyer. These guitars often feature custom designs, wood choices, and additional features such as specific inlays, custom coloring, and electronic enhancements like built-in pickups. For example, a guitar order I once placed with C.F. Martin's Custom Shop was based on the D 35 dreadnought with various custom options, including special limited edition top/ back/ sides woods and abalone inlays. The price tag for such a guitar can be quite substantial, coming in at around $9700, with a $50 deposit required and a delivery period of 5–12 months.

Cost and Delivery

Before embarking on a custom guitar journey, it's important to understand the financial and time commitments involved. A highly customized guitar can easily cost over $10,000, with a significant portion of the payment required upfront. Delivery times can range from 6 to 12 months, with a final balance due upon picking up the instrument at an authorized dealer.

Beyond Taylor and C.F. Martin

While Taylor and C.F. Martin are notable for their custom shops, many other reputable guitar manufacturers also offer custom options. For example, a Taylor guitar I saw in a shop had been returned after a customer had a custom-built guitar according to their own specifications. The customer felt they had overpaid and traded down significantly, which highlights the potential high cost of custom guitars.

When considering custom guitars, it's important to note that most manufacturers will build a guitar to your specifications if you have the cash and the right price is negotiated. This includes electric guitars from brands like Fender, Ibanez, and numerous others.

Smaller Luthier Builds

For those seeking a truly unique instrument, smaller luthier builds (luthier is a person who builds stringed instruments) offer a high degree of customization. These builds can be tailor-made to your exact specifications, allowing you to choose materials, designs, and features to suit your needs. However, the cost and availability of these options may be more limited compared to the larger manufacturers.

Final Thoughts

In summary, if you're looking for a custom-made specialty guitar, be prepared for a significant investment in both time and money. While well-known brands like Taylor and C.F. Martin offer custom shops, many other manufacturers can also accommodate custom orders. Whether you choose a large manufacturer or a small luthier, the process and cost will vary. Make sure to research and budget accordingly, and consider seeking quotes from multiple sources to get the best value for your investment.