Design and Construction

Design:

Every Robt. C. Morrow guitar begins with a collaborative design conversation between myself and the client. This initial step is essential for understanding their goals—including the desired tonal characteristics, playability preferences, and aesthetic considerations. My aim is always to create a guitar that’s not simply a reproduction of a vintage design, but a personalized instrument that fits the player's hands and reflects their musical voice.

We carefully consider every element of the guitar—tone woods, body size, neck profile, and finishing details such as tuning machines and bridge pins. All decisions are made together, ensuring that each detail is thoughtfully agreed upon before I make the first cut of wood.

Based on that design discussion, I provide a build contract for review and approval. This includes:

• A full list of details and specifications for the proposed guitar

• Pricing, which reflects a combination of labor and materials

• An estimated delivery window (typically 12 to 18 months from the signing of the final contract)

Construction:

I believe the quality of a guitar is inseparable from the quality of its materials. That’s why I select only the finest tone woods and components for each build. The woods I use are vintage-grade, chosen for their acoustic properties, grain structure, and aesthetic beauty. I typically work with period-correct species like Spruce for soundboards and Rosewood or Mahogany for backs and sides, though I’m happy to explore other options to suit the player’s needs.

Building each guitar is a slow, intentional process—every stage is completed with care and precision. My construction methods pay tribute to the master luthiers of the early 20th century, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern knowledge.

• Traditional Construction Techniques: I use modern adhesive, protein glue, or hide glue for all structural joints. These glues provide strong bonds while enabling excellent energy transfer between components, contributing to a resonant and vibrant sound.

• Individualized Voicing: I hand-voice the top of each guitar, carefully shaping the internal bracing to fine-tune the tonal response. This process ensures a balanced blend of bass, midrange, and treble—unique to the wood and tailored to the player's preferences.

• Attention to Detail: From the precise dovetail neck joint to the careful leveling and crowning of the frets, I treat every aspect of the build as critical to the final instrument. The result is exceptional intonation, effortless playability, and a truly inspiring feel.