Introducing the Lutherie Log™
Master the build. Track the science.
Guitar Building School in Logan, Utah — Learn Scientific Lutherie
At the Utah School of Lutherie©, we don’t just teach you how to assemble an instrument; we teach you how to engineer a high-performance musical tool. Located in Logan, our curriculum bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and Scientific Lutherie. Whether you want to build a world-class acoustic guitar, a high-performance electric, or a concert-grade ukulele, you will learn a repeatable, data-driven approach to construction that ensures every build reaches its maximum acoustic potential.
Why Choose the Utah School of Lutherie?
While many programs rely on “building by ear,” our school focuses on Acoustic Physics and Boutique Craftsmanship. We specialize in the methodologies of Trevor Gore and Giuliano Nicoletti, giving students a technical edge that applies across all stringed instruments.
Scientific Voicing: Learn to use 4-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) modeling, monopole mobility testing, and spectrum analysis to objectively voice your instruments for maximum responsiveness.
Versatile Bracing Systems: We teach a spectrum of internal architectures tailored to your specific project, including Falcate, V-Class, and Modified X-Bracing.
Mastery of Hand-Finishing: Master the art of French Polishing with shellac for an acoustically transparent film, as well as modern Rubio Monocoat oil applications for a durable, professional matte-satin feel.
Total Material Control: We do not use pre-carved kits. You will start with rough-sawn tonewoods, learning to mill and thickness components using vacuum clamping and precision shop machinery.
Curriculum & Skills: From Hand Tools to High-Tech
Our Instrument Building Course provides a comprehensive foundation in both traditional woodworking and modern engineering.
Foundational Woodworking & Hand Skills:
Tool Mastery: Gaining deep experience with hand planes, chisels, and scrapers. You will learn to sharpen and tune these tools to achieve “glue-ready” surfaces.
Dimensioning by Hand: Developing the “feel” for wood by thicknessing tops and sides using traditional hand tools alongside modern machinery.
Precision Joinery: Executing flawless Spanish Heel construction, dovetail neck joints, and complex inlay work.
Shop Safety & Workflow: Learning professional workshop management, from material seasoning to efficient project sequencing.
Acoustic Engineering:
Material Science: Analyzing Young’s Modulus and density to select the best stock for your specific build.
Plate Tuning: Using Chladni patterns and spectrum analysis to ensure structural stability without sacrificing tone.
The Science of Finishing: Understanding the chemistry and application of hand-rubbed finishes that protect the wood without dampening vibration.
Advanced Elective: CNC for Luthiers
For students looking to modernize their workflow, we offer a CNC Add-On Module. This elective covers the integration of digital fabrication into the workshop:
Digital Workflow: Gain hands-on experience with the Sienci LongMill MK2 and SuperLongBoard controllers.
Jigs & Fixtures: Learn to design and cut precision bridge blanks, fretboards, and custom inlays.
Software & G-code: An introduction to NCsender and Raspberry Pi-based CNC operations.
Flexible, One-on-One Instruction
We understand that traditional 5-month programs aren’t feasible for everyone. Our school offers a unique, flexible scheduling model that allows you to complete your build in intensive blocks or modular sessions.
Personal Mentorship: Receive 1-on-1 instruction directly from a professional luthier in a working shop environment.
Student Benefits: All students receive a 20% discount at Stewart-MacDonald and a certificate of completion.
Start Your Build
Stop guessing and start measuring. Join a new generation of makers who combine the soul of a craftsman with the precision of an engineer.
The Utah School of Lutherie© is Utah’s only trusted development program that teaches you cutting-edge innovation, job placement, and top-notch skills in lutherie! We are also nationally recognized in the Guild of American Luthiers and StewMac.
Highlights from the Utah School of Lutherie
- Instrument design
- Jig and mold making*
- Tone-wood selection
- Tools and shop setup
- Discussion of theories
- Voicing of the top and back
- Different bracing options
- Instrument set-up
- Leveling and crowning frets
- Bridge design
- Milling lumber from rough stock
- One-on-one hands-on instruction
- Spanish Heel construction(classical guitar), mortise/tenon joint
- Frequency response data – 3 main modes
- Modal Tuning
- Gore/Gilet method – active back
- French polishing or Rubio MonoCoat finishing
- Soldering
- Electronics
- Certificate upon completion
- Custom swag – hat, t-shirt, and apron
- And so much more!
The Utah School of Lutherie© is completely flexible with your schedule. You can choose from the available weeks or days that will fit your needs. We can also set up classes via Zoom if you have your own workshop, and once you have started the process in person.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
*Strings Micro Factory Templates
Luthier School Pricing
$4,000 for the entire course, which includes all the material to build the instrument. *Any bending machines, jigs, higher-end tonewoods, or other tools will be an additional charge.* Students also receive a 20% discount on tonewood and tools at StewMac.
– CNC Add-On Course: $400
A $800 deposit* is required to secure your spot, with the remaining balance due before the start of the program.
Creating space for all. At de Houtwinkel, everyone’s welcome. We’re proud to be a place where people from all walks of life feel at home, whether you’re just starting your first build or you’ve been building for years. We believe in treating each other with kindness, respect, and curiosity. Our space reflects the diverse community around us, and we’re always working to make sure everyone feels seen, heard, and included.