Slack Key Guitar Kits

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.

Our stock kits contain all necessary parts (unless stated otherwise on the product page).

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.

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.

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.

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.