Complete Guitar Headstock Drilling Guide

Hey DIY guitar builders! Today we're tackling one of the most nerve-wracking parts of any guitar build - drilling those tuner holes in your headstock. Get this wrong, and you can ruin your DIY Guitar. Get it right, and you're one step closer to a professional-quality instrument.

Download PDF manual

Part 1: Preparation & Tools

Before we drill anything, let's talk about what you'll need:

• A drill with the right bits for your specific tuners
  
• A precise template or measurements
  
• Masking tape to prevent wood splintering
  
• A sharp bradpoint bit for clean starter holes
  
• Clamps to secure your DIY Guitar
  
• Safety glasses - always protect those eyes!

Headstock Tuner Hole Template

Download 2+2 Bass Headstock File (JPG)

Download 6-in-line Headstock File (JPG) 

Download 3+3 Headstock File (JPG)

Part 2: Measuring & Marking

The secret to perfect tuner holes is accurate measurement. I'll show you how to:

• Create a centerline down your headstock
  
• Mark precise spacing between tuners
  
• Double-check your measurements before drilling
  
• Use a template if you have one available

Part 3: Drilling Technique

Now for the drilling itself:

• Always drill pilot holes first
  
• Work from both sides to prevent a blowout
  
• Control your drill speed - slower is better
  
• Apply even pressure
  
• Let the drill do the work - don't force it

Part 4: Common Mistakes

Here are mistakes I've made so you don't have to:

• Rushing the process and not reviewing Guitar Kit World Resources
  
• Not checking the headstock template for accurate measurements (Step 1)
• Not securing the headstock properly
• Using dull bits
  
• Drilling at an angle
  
• Forgetting to account for headstock thickness

Conclusion

There you have it! Perfect tuner holes that will make installation a breeze. Remember, this is one of those 'measure twice, cut once' situations. Take your time, follow these steps, and you'll avoid that sinking feeling of messing up your beautiful headstock.

Read Guitar Tuning Machines: The Complete Guide for more knowledge on choosing tuners to use for your DIY guitar. Happy DIY journey, everyone! 

Meet the author

Paul M.

Paul, a passionate guitar lover, motorcycle rider and the Builder Success Manager at Guitar Kit World, blends his in-depth technical expertise with his love for music to craft personalized solutions for builders...

See more

Related articles:

Building a Blank DIY Guitar Kit from Start to Finish

Ready to dive into your next DIY adventure? In this follow-up video to the previous Unboxing a Bl...

Read now >

Unboxing a Blank Guitar Kit

Have you ever dreamed of building your own guitar? In this exciting video, Josh dives into the wo...

Read now >

Building a Jazz Guitar by Ralph A.

In this video, Ralph A. assembles a jazz guitar using the E75-style kit from Guitar Kit World. Th...

Read now >