Small Classes. Real Shop.
Personal Instruction.
THE WHITNEY APPROACH
Every course is rooted in hands-on experience, guiding students through the complete process of building a guitar from raw materials to final setup. Working in a professional guitar shop alongside an experienced builder, students develop practical skills, confidence, and an understanding of the craft that extends well beyond a single instrument.
How Students Learn
Learning happens through the process of building a complete instrument—from raw materials to final setup.
Build a Real Instrument
Every student completes a guitar from raw materials to final setup.
Learn by Doing
Skills are introduced as they become relevant throughout the build.
Personal Instruction
Small class sizes allow for direct guidance at every stage.
Work in a Real Shop
Courses take place in a professional working guitar workshop.
Learn from a Working Guitar Maker.
Michael Whitney
Custom Guitar Maker • Instructor
Every course is taught in a working custom guitar shop by Michael Whitney, founder of Whitney Guitars.
Students receive direct instruction through every stage of the build process—from selecting materials and preparing components to final assembly and setup.
Rather than learning through demonstrations alone, students work alongside an experienced builder in a small-class environment where questions, experimentation, and hands-on learning are encouraged throughout the build.
The goal is not simply to complete an instrument, but to develop the skills, confidence, and understanding needed to continue building long after the course ends.
What Students Take Home
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Rod Scott
3-WEEK ACOUSTIC GUITAR GRADUATE
I spent 20 intensive days milling the parts, joining, setup, and finishing. I now have an impressive OM for my collection. Michael is patient, easy to work with, and very knowledgeable.
— Rod Scott, Idaho
3-Week Course Graduate
★★★★★
THE JOURNEY DOESN'T END WHEN YOU LEAVE THE SHOP
Beyond the Guitar
Build Something Real
Learn the Craft
Continue Building
Stay Connected
Take home a completed guitar built entirely by your own hands.
Gain the confidence to keep building long after the course ends.
Gain the confidence to set up your own shop and keep creating.
Join a community of builders who share your passion for the craft.