The Luthier's Workshop

Build a Guitar with Tom Knatt

The Luthier's Workshop explores the possibilities of new woods and designs for guitars, violins, and other string instruments. Thomas Knatt makes unique instruments, repairs difficult breaks, and teaches these skills to others.

Weekly Course

Four hours each Thursday evening in Groton MA, where 4-6 students handcraft guitars from basic materials or from prepared materials.

Weekend Intensive Course

The shop will be open from Sat. through Sun. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on selected weekends. Students work at their own pace, and should expect to finish an instrument from basic materials in 20 weekends, or from a kit in 15 weekends, without finish. Local students may also attend the evening program. Guitar repair will be included.

Correspondence Course

Currently in development. Please indicate if this is attractive to you and how you might like it to work. Tom anticipates providing a text plus access via email and telephone to help you complete your instrument.

Acoustics

I teach acoustical principles of instrument making to a select group of students. Guitar and violin acoustics can confound even the most knowledgeable observers. Years of study with violin maker Carleen Hutchins have trained me in scientific plate evaluation methods which I share with my students. I am always open to discussing these topics.

Classes for luthiers in Violin Octet construction are also offered. Please visit the Violin Octet website for further information on these instruments as designed by Carleen Hutchins.

Summer Workshop in Groton, MA

Instructor	Tom Knatt
Locations	Groton, MA Bedarieux, France Boston, MA
Class size	Small group
Style of Instrument	Acoustic nylon or steel string guitar, violin
Duration	various
Contact	website

A three week summer workshop is offered in guitarmaking from prepared materials with Thomas Knatt as instructor.

Southern France Classes

Classes in lutherie are offered--both guitars and violins--in the south of France. The minimum class period is two weeks. The class is in a small village about one-half hour north of Beziers, near the town of Bedarieux. Lodging is provided. Materials, transportation, and food are extra. Hand tools may be provided as needed