Acoustic, Electric Guitar & Ukulele Building Workshop in Utah   $2,500

One-on-One Lutherie Training with Master Luthier Daryl vanderGroef

Build the instrument of your dreams—your way.
At the Utah School of Lutherie, we offer a unique, hands-on workshop where you’ll craft your own acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or ukulele from raw tonewoods—not from a kit. Guided by master luthier Daryl vanderGroef, you’ll experience the full journey of transforming milled lumber into a professional-quality, handcrafted instrument with rich sound and timeless beauty.

What Makes This Workshop Different

Unlike mass-produced kits, this course teaches you the true art of lutherie. You’ll gain one-on-one instruction from start to finish, learning how to select, shape, and assemble every part of your instrument. Each build takes about 200 hours, but the pace is entirely up to you. Whether you want to dedicate entire weeks in the shop or attend weekly sessions, this workshop is tailored to your schedule and learning style.

Workshop Pricing & Details

$2,500 – Full Course (materials & instruction included)
$800 deposit required (financing options available*)

Every student build includes:

• Mahogany back, sides, and neck for acoustics

• Spruce top for resonant tone

• Rosewood or ebony fretboard, bridge, and headplate

• Gotoh tuners (premium hardware for reliable performance)

• Nickel/silver frets and round fret markers

• Binding of your choice

• Strap button + string set of your choice

• Shellac or oil finish for professional results

• For electrics: Guyker/Gotoh hardware (upgrades available)

Want something truly special? Exotic and premium tonewoods are available for an additional cost.

Who Can Join?

No woodworking experience? No problem. This course is open to beginners, hobbyists, and experienced woodworkers alike. You’ll work in our fully equipped woodshop in Logan, Utah, with all the tools and materials provided. If you have personal hand tools you’d like to bring (planes, chisels, hand saws, etc.), they’re welcome—just make sure they’re sharp and ready to use.

⚠️ Students are required to bring their own hearing and eye protection and a dust mask for safety.

Want to bring a friend or family member to join the build? We can accommodate additional students for an extra fee—just ask for details.

Why Choose de Houtwinkel’s Lutherie Workshop?

• One-on-one instruction → no large classes, just personalized mentorship.

• Hands-on learning → build a complete instrument from raw lumber.

• High-quality tonewoods → every piece is carefully selected for sound and durability.

• Flexible scheduling → weekly, monthly, or immersive weeklong sessions.

• Inclusive community → we welcome students of all backgrounds and skill levels.

At de Houtwinkel, everyone is welcome. Our workshop is a place where curiosity, respect, and creativity thrive.

Start Your Lutherie Journey Today

This isn’t just a workshop—it’s the chance to create an heirloom instrument that reflects your style, your sound, and your craftsmanship. Whether you dream of strumming your own acoustic guitar, plugging in your custom electric, or playing a hand-built ukulele, this course will guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to reserve your spot and begin your journey into the timeless craft of lutherie.

*Deposit is non-refundable. Rescheduling due to life events is always possible—we’ll work with you. Balance due before the first class begins.