It's amazing how the smallest of details can alter the look of your guitar. The following guideline will help you decide on some of the details needed to achieve the final look you desire. That's the beauty of having a custom guitar built; you get to choose what it will look like.

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The choices here generally fall between Spruce and cedar. Spruce can range from a light tan colour to almost white. Cedar typically has a warm orange/red colour. The majority of classical guitars are made with cedar tops, giving the guitar a vintage feel. Whereas white spruce combined with a solid black binding can give a contemporary feel. Wood being a product of nature is unique and will be different from piece to piece. I will personally flip through several sets of tops before I settle on the right set.

The choices for the back and sides not only change the appearance of the guitar, but can also change the voice of the instrument. Each species of wood used for the back and sides will bring its own character to the sound and look. The darker woods will lend its self to a traditional looking guitar, where as unique woods such as curly maple will add a contemporary look.

Bindings can be made from most wood species. Plastic bindings are also available in colours such as white, black or grained ivoroid. Dark wood bindings give the guitar a conservative look, lighter bindings contrast nicely with a dark side and back set. Solid black plastic bindings give a contemporary feel and the grained ivoroid gives the guitar a vintage feel.

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