Key Facts

  • Starting
    17 Sep 2026
    Location
    Merton
    Start Time
    10:00
    End Time
    16:00
    Duration
    1 Year
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Thursday
    Start Date
    17 Sep 2026
    End Date
    24 Jun 2027
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    MCRX135FC

    Enrol

  • Starting
    18 Sep 2026
    Location
    Merton
    Start Time
    10:00
    End Time
    16:00
    Duration
    1 Year
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Friday
    Start Date
    18 Sep 2026
    End Date
    25 Jun 2027
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    MCRX136FC

    Enrol

Guitar Making - Intermediate and Advanced

Guitar Making - Intermediate and Advanced

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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 day per week. We would recommend you enrol for both days if you can, to progress faster and learn the skills more thoroughly.

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

  • Entry Requirements


    Beginner Level No previous instrument-making experience required Interest in woodworking, music, or craftsmanship Willingness to learn practical workshop skills

    Intermediate / Advanced Level Previous experience in instrument making, woodworking, or completion of a beginner course Ability to work with hand tools and workshop equipment Commitment to developing more advanced techniques

    Learners may be asked to attend a short informal discussion or assessment before joining the course.

  • Course Content


    Beginners 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

    Intermediate / Advanced learners may also explore: 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 £100.00 (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.