A Builder's Approach to Repair

Building mandolins from scratch taught me to identify root causes rather than symptoms.

Jake inspecting an instrument

I've spent over ten years building and repairing as a full time luthier, with training from two mentors, one specializing in fretted instruments and one in classical bowed string instruments.

My work includes Loar-era Gibsons, pre-war Martins, antique violins, and other wooden stringed instruments, from lutes to sitars.

I handle every job personally, so you work with me from start to finish.

I aim for repairs that are strong, right, and minimally invasive.

Services

Crack repairs Structural work Neck resets

Refrets Finish work Restoration

additional inquiries welcome

Instruments

Mandolins Lutes Guitars

Violins Cellos Basses Ukeleles

and other wooden stringed instruments

How It Works

1

Get in touch

Fill out the contact form and tell me what's going on with your instrument. I'll follow up soon to discuss, provide a free estimate, and help coordinate drop-off or shipping.

2

Drop off or ship

Drop-off at one of a few local shops in the greater Kansas City area preferred. Shipping available for repairs of $500 or more.

3

Inspection

Once received, I'll inspect the instrument and contact you to discuss options. This is a free, no-commitment evaluation. No work starts without your approval.

4

Repair and Setup

I'll complete the work we've agreed upon and call you first if I discover anything else that needs attention. Once the repairs are finished, I'll perform a complete setup to ensure your instrument feels and sounds its best.

5

Pickup

Local in-person pickup is preferred so we can verify the feel together and make any final adjustments before you leave.

Not sure what's wrong? Tell me what's going on and I'll tell you what I'd do, what it will cost, and what I'd leave alone.

Get in Touch