Bristol Guitar Making School

Fresh out of the workshop: Mike’s finished OM guitar, built at Bristol Guitar Making School.

Featuring a sitka spruce top paired with beautifully figured walnut back and sides, this instrument came together over after lots of bending, carving, voicing and fine detail work — all by hand.

Our September course is the perfect chance to immerse yourself in guitar making and leave with a professional-quality instrument built by you. Led by master craftsman Alex Bishop Guitars you'll be guided throughout every step of the process.

A few places are still available: https://www.guitarmakingschool.co.uk/service-page/three-week-guitar-making-course-2?referral=service_list_widget

to Simon’s twin-port parlour, and a great example of how far you can push a design.

With its striking Zebrano back and sides and that distinctive twin soundport layout, this one has a really modern feel while still sitting firmly in the world of handmade acoustic guitars. It’s a bold look, but it works beautifully, both visually and tonally.

Every build on our three week course is different, and this is exactly the point. You’re not just following a template, you’re creating something that reflects your own ideas and tastes.

If you’ve been thinking about building your own guitar, our September course is open for bookings now. https://www.guitarmakingschool.co.uk/service-page/three-week-guitar-making-course-2?referral=service_list_widget

Malcolm’s latest build, fresh off the bench.

This L-00 style guitar pairs beautifully figured English walnut with a Sitka spruce top, wrapped in bold padauk binding for a subtle but striking contrast. It features a hand carved pyramid bridge and a French polished shellac finish that really lets the wood speak. Lightweight, responsive, and full of character.

This is exactly the kind of instrument our students are building on our three week guitar making course. If you have ever wanted to create something like this with your own hands, now is a great time to take a closer look.

Our September course is now open for bookings. Head to the link in bio to find out more and secure your place.

Do I need any experience?
No prior experience is needed.
We’ll guide you through each stage of the build, from rough timber to finished instrument.

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What will I actually build?
You’ll build a full acoustic guitar from scratch, using professional-grade materials and workshop tools.

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How hands-on is it?
Very. This is a practical course. You’ll be doing the work yourself, with close guidance throughout.

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What size are the groups?
Places are kept to only three students to make sure everyone gets proper one-to-one time and support.

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Do I get to choose the design?
Yes, within a guided framework. You’ll have input on woods, details, and some design choices.

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What do I leave with?
A fully finished, playable acoustic guitar that you’ve built yourself.

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When is the next course?
The next three week course runs in September 2026.
Places are limited.

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Find full details and booking via the link in bio

A recent build from Ed, finished in the workshop. The standout detail has to be the gilded crown logo on the headstock — a small touch, but it gives the whole instrument a distinct identity.

This is what these builds are really about: learning the process, making decisions, and ending up with something that reflects your own taste rather than anyone else’s.



If building your own guitar is something you’ve been thinking about:
• One-to-one courses are available year-round
• September’s three-week course is open for bookings

More details via the link in bio, or just drop us a message.

🪚 This month's newsletter has been released! September guitar making course now live, upcoming guitar shows and exhibitions, plus the latest news from the workbench. 🎸 - https://mailchi.mp/ba5f3a16a03a/alex-bishop-guitars-newsletter-march24-8577092

Built by hand. Played with pride.
David’s did a top job with his mahogany OM, fresh off the bench.
September 3-week course now open - link in bio! 💪