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Short-Scale Guitar Kits
Short scale guitars use a reduced scale length, typically 24 inches compared to the standard 25.5 inches. That inch and a half makes a real difference. The frets are closer together, the string tension is lower, and the overall feel is slinkier and more forgiving under your fingers.
Our short scale guitar kits are perfect for players with smaller hands, younger builders, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed playing feel. The reduced tension makes bending easier, chords less fatiguing, and fast runs more fluid. Many professional players choose short scale guitars specifically for these playing advantages.
Tonally, short scale guitars tend toward a warmer, slightly thicker sound than their full-scale counterparts. The lower string tension gives the notes a softer attack and rounder character that works beautifully for blues, indie, classic rock, and jazz.
These kits suit all skill levels, including first-time builders. The compact body size is easier to handle during finishing, and the standard bolt-on construction goes together the same way as a full-size kit. If standard guitars have always felt like a stretch, a short scale kit will feel like it was made for your hands.
Basswood Violin Bass Kit with Pau Ferro Fretboard
Original price
$299.99 USD
Original price
$299.99 USD
-
Original price
$299.99 USD
Original price
$299.99 USD
Current price
$269.99 USD
$269.99 USD
-
$269.99 USD
Current price
$269.99 USD
Skill
8/10 Advanced
Experience the joy of creating your own music with our DIY Violin Bass Guitar kit! This short-scale (30" / 760 mm) kit includes all the materials n...
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Scale Length
Most short scale kits use a 24-inch scale. Some go shorter at 22.5 inches, which is closer to a three-quarter size guitar.
Body Size
Short scale kits often have proportionally smaller bodies that are lighter and more comfortable for smaller players.
String Gauge
Lower tension means standard strings feel slinkier. You can use your regular gauge or go up one step if you prefer more resistance.
Nut Width
Some short scale kits have narrower nut widths that suit smaller hands. Check the measurements if hand size is your main reason for choosing short scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should build a short scale guitar kit?
Short scale kits are great for players with smaller hands, younger builders, and anyone who wants a more relaxed playing feel. They are also popular with experienced players who want a different tonal character and easier string bending.
Does short scale mean lower quality?
Not at all. Short scale is a design choice, not a compromise. Professional musicians have used short scale guitars on countless recordings. The tonewoods, pickups, and hardware in our short scale kits are the same quality as our full-size kits.
Can I tune a short scale guitar to standard tuning?
Yes. Short scale guitars tune to standard E-to-E tuning just like full-scale guitars. The shorter scale length reduces string tension at the same pitch, which gives you the slinky playing feel these guitars are known for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to build a kit guitar?
Depending on the type of guitar you buy you may only require tools and materials for finishing the guitar (painting) and soldering.
Screwdrivers, sandpaper and sanding block. Finishing supplies e.g. paint, stain, and clear gloss, ventilation mask, coping saw or jigsaw if shaping the headstock.
With this small list of inexpensive tools, you will be up and running and ready to build your electric guitar in no time.
Recommended reading: Luthier Tools for DIY Guitar Kits.
Does the kit include everything to build a working guitar?
Our stock kits contain all necessary parts (unless stated otherwise on the product page).
How long does it take to complete a guitar kit?
It depends on the choice of finish. For instance, when you paint or stain a guitar you will need the surface to dry and harden (cure). This can take anywhere from 1 week to 3 months depending on your choice of finishing product.
You will find the guitar dries to approximately 90% very quickly but the final 10% takes some time. If you can't wait that long you could try tung oil or wax finish but bear in mind the finish won't be as durable and protect the guitar as effectively.
Do I have to solder the electronics?
Most of our kits require basic soldering. If you're new to it, check out our wiring guide here.
If you don't want to solder, or don't have the tools, our solderless guitar kits use plug-and-play wiring. No iron required.
What finishing options can I use on my guitar?
You can use stain, paint, or oil-based finishes. Learn more about finishing techniques here.
Our advice: use a reference. In most cases, this will be a guitar you particularly like the look of and want to create something similar.
To view the latest DIY guitars from our community follow us on Instagram and visit our Customer Reviews page.
How good will my finished kit guitar sound?
It's defined firstly by the components you use and secondly the workmanship that goes into putting it all together.
Watch the community section of our YouTube channel to learn how kit guitars sound.