Intensive OM-Style Acoustic Guitar Build Course — 2 Weeks 

This Intensive 2-Week Acoustic Build Course gives any student the opportunity to build a traditional OM-style acoustic guitar, closely modelled on a classic Martin. This course is at the final stages of being released. We have run the course before, but are looking for 5 students to do our final run through. This offering is a unique opportunity to be part of a build experience where you will not only build an amazing instrument but also help us shape the final framework of this course. The course currently has a very limited offer of 5 spaces and is 40% off what the full RRP will be. If you want to book a later date there is an option to purchase the full course we will be running.

Unlike our electric courses, this programme follows a fixed OM design due to the complexity and pace of the build. Some timber options may be available, though we recommend Mahogany and Sitka Spruce.
Materials are not included and may be purchased through us, or you may bring your own approved timbers. Material costs vary and a good budget would be between £300-£600 depending on final specification. 

This course is designed for students who want to take their first major step into lutherie, learn traditional acoustic building methods, and experience every stage of construction from raw wood to fully playable instrument.

What You Will Learn

Across the two weeks, you will be guided through traditional acoustic building techniques including:
joining and thicknessing, bracing, bending sides, body assembly, binding and purfling, neck construction and carving, tennon fitting, bridge shaping, fretwork, finishing, and final setup.
By the end of the course you will leave not only with a complete instrument, but with the foundational skills needed to continue your journey in acoustic guitar building.

A Typical Fortnight on the OM Acoustic Course

Day 1 – Joint top & back, thickness sides
Day 2 – Thickness top & back, rosette installation, brace back
Day 3 – Brace top, prepare internal blocks
Day 4 – Bend sides, block sides, Line sides, carve top and back
Day 5 – Box the body, scarf-joint neck, fit heel block
Day 6 – Route bindings and bind body, make fingerboard
Day 7 – Cut truss-rod slot, carve neck, add head veneer
Day 8 – Cut truss-rod slot, carve neck, add head veneer, tennon neck fitting, make bridge
Day 9 – Fretwork, sanding, and apply finish
Day 10 – Fit bridge, prepare nut and saddle, final setup

Course Hours

This course runs 9 am to 5 pm with breaks throughout the day.
You are welcome to arrive up to 15 minutes early, but due to health and safety we cannot allow students into the workshop before 8:45 am.

Materials & Specification

Timbers and hardware can be purchased through Crimson Guitars at an additional cost.
If you choose to bring your own materials, you will receive a Specification Sheet after booking so we can ensure all timbers and parts are suitable for the build.

Tool Discounts for Students

All students on this course receive an on-course tool discount, redeemable against Crimson Guitars Tools.
If you wish to use this discount before your course begins, please let us know and we will ensure your tools are ready at your bench when you arrive.

During Your Visit

While local shops and pubs are within a 10-minute drive, most students choose to bring a packed lunch and we recommend this.
Our workshop is based in the picturesque Dorset countryside, near Dorchester, making this not only a unique learning experience but also an inspiring escape.

Accommodation

If you require accommodation, we may be able to assist you with various popular recommendations based on your individual needs.

Get in Touch

Please contact us for more information, to discuss material options, or to reserve your place.
Only 5 spaces are available for this exclusive acoustic course—first come, first served.

You can also browse our YouTube channel for tutorials, tool demos, and in-depth videos to help you get the most out of your Crimson Guitars experience.