Smokin hot cigar box guitar

[lawry]

A few of you probably know that I'm in a bit of a PBG hiatus at the moment because I'm saving up for some new studio gear. However, reading about all the builds going on really makes it difficult to kick back and do nothing. So I decided to build a cigar box guitar. Overlord Wokka was a bit instrumental in this because he was very encouraging. So... I did a heap of Googling and found some useful information amidst the apocryphal musings of many 'experts' and proceeded to buy a few supplies: cigar box, a length of oak and other odds and sods.
So... The build began last Saturday.

[lawry]

Got a length of oak, shaped the headstock and cut the fret slots. At this stage I was really tempted to stop there and turn it into a rip stick.

[lawry]

Then it was time to shape the neck into a more rounded and comfortable shape for playing. Also made a bridge out of a bit of meranti with a bolt for the saddle.

[lawry]

The last thing done (on Sunday) was to attach an old hinge for a string retainer, install some brass grommets for sound holes and then do a mock build to verify all fits correctly. Next weekend I hope to do some clear coating, install the frets and tuners, then string it up and play! Here's hoping.

[dingobass]

That is so cool, Lawry......
Makes me think I should break out and build one myself

[bargeloobs]

Damn that is cool, I would looove to have a go at something like this. What special gear do you need for cuttin' the fret slots and I'm picking a truss rod obviously isn't necessary?

[WeirdBits]

Looks great, Lawry.

[lawry]

@DB. I reckon you could build one of these in your lunch break with your skills and equipment.
@Bargie. My tools are very basic. I cut the fret slots with a junior hacksaw. In fact, the only power tool I have used so far is a drill for the machine head holes.

[maxaxe]

About as cool as it gets and nice workmanship too.
Will you be tuning it to an open chord? I'm ignorant sbout 4 stringers :?
Did Monica Lewinsky help smoke a cigar for ya?

[lawry]

She'll have to wait intern.
Probably go for either GDGD or GDGB tuning I reckon.