Key Facts

  • Starting
    15 Sep 2026
    Location
    Merton
    Start Time
    18:00
    End Time
    21:00
    Duration
    1 Year
    Study Mode
    Part Time Evening
    Days
    Tuesday
    Start Date
    15 Sep 2026
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    MCRX140FC

    Fees

    19+ Fee
    £ 900

    Enrol

Guitar Making and Repair - All Levels

Guitar Making and Repair - All Levels

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If you would like to learn how to make a guitar, our specialist workshops are the perfect place to begin. Merton College is one of the few places in the UK where you can train in this highly specialised craft.

We have been delivering Musical Instrument Making and Repair courses for over 50 years, helping students develop the practical skills and expertise needed to progress into employment, start their own business, or work as a self-employed instrument maker or repairer.

Our courses provide learners with the opportunity to develop traditional instrument-making skills in guitar construction. Designed for both beginners and those with some prior woodworking or instrument-making experience, the courses guide learners through the full process of crafting high-quality string instruments.

Learners will gain hands-on experience using specialist tools, materials, and traditional luthiery techniques while developing an understanding of instrument design, acoustics, and finishing. By the end of the course, learners will have developed the skills and confidence to build and complete their own instrument.

The course is offered at Beginner and Intermediate/Advanced levels to support learners at different stages of their instrument-making journey. The course runs for 30 weeks.

This course is one evening per week.

If you have any questions about this course or future courses, please contact Martina.Collett-Creedy@stcg.ac.uk.

  • Entry Requirements


    No previous instrument-making experience is required

    An interest in woodworking, music, or craftsmanship

    Willingness to learn and develop practical workshop skills

    Some experience in instrument making or woodworking is beneficial but not essential

    Ability or readiness to work with hand tools and workshop equipment

    Commitment to developing skills, from basic techniques through to more advanced practices

    Willingness to take part in a short informal discussion or assessment before joining the course

  • Course Content


    Introduction to luthiery and instrument design

    Understanding tonewoods and materials

    Safe use of hand tools and workshop equipment

    Instrument measurements and templates

    Guitar and violin body construction

    Introduction to luthiery and instrument design

    Understanding tonewoods and materials

    Safe use of hand tools and workshop equipment

    Instrument measurements and templates

    Guitar and violin body construction

    Neck shaping and fitting

    Soundboard and bracing techniques

    Assembly and structural alignment

    Varnishing and finishing techniques

    Fitting hardware and final setup

    Basic instrument maintenance and adjustments

    Advanced carving and shaping techniques

    Acoustic optimisation and sound adjustment

    Complex finishing methods

    Repair and restoration techniques

    Custom instrument design considerations

  • Progression Next Steps


    Further advanced training in luthiery or instrument-making techniques

    Opportunities in employment within instrument-making workshops, repair studios, or specialist music shops

    Developing skills to work in instrument repair, restoration, or maintenance

    Self-employment as an instrument maker, producing and selling handcrafted guitars or violins

    Starting a small craft business specialising in custom-built instruments, repairs, or bespoke commissions

    The course also supports learners who wish to continue developing their craft independently, either as a professional pathway or creative personal practice.

  • Additional Information


    The course runs for 30 weeks

    Consumables fee of £70.00 (to cover use and maintenance of tools and workshop equipment)

    Some materials will require an additional cost

    Learners should wear suitable clothing suitable for workshop activities

    Basic tools will be provided, though learners may wish to purchase their own as they progress

    Regular attendance is important to complete the instrument construction process

    If you have any questions about this course or future courses, please contact Martina.Collett-Creedy@stcg.ac.uk.

  • Course Structure


    The course runs for 30 weeks and is delivered through a combination of practical workshop sessions, demonstrations, and guided independent work.

    Learners will work step-by-step through the process of building an instrument, supported by experienced tutors. Sessions may include:

    Tutor demonstrations of specialist techniques

    Hands-on instrument construction

    Group discussions and troubleshooting

    Independent workshop time with tutor guidance

    Both beginner and intermediate learners will work at a pace suitable to their experience level.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is practical and continuous throughout the course. Learners will be assessed through:

    Completion of instrument-making stages

    Demonstration of practical workshop skills

    Quality of craftsmanship and finishing

    Participation and engagement in workshop activities

    Tutors will provide regular feedback to support skill development throughout the course.