Sunday 18 September 2011

How to build a guitar - Part 1 - Sourcing the parts





When it comes to guitars, left handed players don't have much choice. That's why it's a great idea to build your own guitar. It's fun, cheap and leaves you with a unique instrument. However, it can be quite challenging to source all of the parts for a left handed guitar, so try and pick a popular shape, like a strat or les paul. 

I built my Strat for under £75, and could have easily done it for less if I tried, so building a guitar is a great way to save money. 

Step 1: Parts list.
For a typical Stratocaster guitar you will need: 
Body - £20 - Second hand from eBay
Neck - £12 - Second hand from eBay
Pickups - Came new with pick guard
Electronics - Came new with pick guard
Knobs and jacks - Came new with pick guard
Pick guard - £16 - New from eBay
Bridge and accessories - £18 - new from eBay
Screws (different sizes) - Came with each part
Neck plate - £2 - New from eBay
Back cover - £4 - New from eBay
Tuning pegs - Came with neck
Strap buttons -£2 - New from eBay




As you can see, I like buying parts from eBay! There are so many amazing deals out there for guitar parts, you just have to look a little harder. Don't always go for new parts, because there are so many second hand parts, for a fraction of the price, that are still great quality!


Below, I have posted some pictures of my home built guitar. It has a right handed body (because parts are easier to source), but it has a left handed neck.  

Very soon, I will post information on how to actually build and set up your home made guitar.


If you would like any of the links to the shops on eBay where I purchased the parts, please comment below.








Saturday 17 September 2011

Welcome!

Welcome to Left Hand Reviews! I will be looking at some of the best products out there for the left handed musician, as well as other pieces of gear, such as guitars, amps, pedals; even recording equipment! Look out for special previews, videos, pictures and reviews, all dedicated to the left handed musician!