Make an Electric Guitar Using the CNC Router

In this five-session class, you will start with traditional paper plans of a guitar body. You will get an introduction to Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) using Fusion 360. Then you will use those skills to create a 3D model of the guitar using the printed plans for guidance. You will use Computer-Assisted Manufacturing (CAM) features to choose tools and tool paths to make the guitar body on a 3-axis CNC router.

You will simulate creating your guitar on the computer, but to ensure that you end up with a playable instrument, the class will then go through the same processes using a proven design: a version of a Fender Telecaster Thinline (semi-hollow) guitar.

Next, we will discuss tonewood and pickup choices. You will learn how traditional luthiers make their design choices.

Finally, we will cut guitar bodies on the CNC router with locally-sourced wood. You’ll also use the drill press, router table, and Festool random-orbit sander.  as you complete your guitar.

The materials fee of $150 includes wood for the two-part guitar body, a pre-made neck, tuners, pickups, bridge, strings, and other hardware required to build a complete electric guitar. Finish is not included, as there won’t be time in this one-week class for that final step. There will be a discussion about finish options.

Please bring a laptop computer with you to class, ideally with an external mouse.

Class open to youth ages 13-18.