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Bridge Pickup Mounting
The T-style bridge pickup sits in a metal plate that is part of the bridge assembly, which is a big part of what gives it that distinctive bright, twangy tone.
Body Wood Choice
Ash bodies deliver a brighter, more articulate T-style sound while alder bodies are warmer and more balanced across the frequency range.
Neck Pickup Type
Some T-style kits use a standard single coil neck pickup, while others offer a humbucker in the neck position for a warmer, fatter lead tone.
Control Layout
The standard T-style wiring uses a three-way switch, one volume knob, and one tone knob. This simple layout is very easy to wire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the T-style a good first guitar kit to build?
The flat body requires minimal shaping, the wiring only has two pickups and three controls, and the bolt-on neck is the most forgiving joint type. It is the easiest path to a finished guitar.
What gives a T-style guitar its distinctive twang?
The bridge pickup is mounted in a metal plate that is part of the bridge itself. This direct coupling transfers vibration differently than a pickup mounted in a routed cavity, producing that classic bright snap.
Can I get a humbucker sound from a T-style kit?
Yes. Some of our T-style kits come with a humbucker in the neck position. You can also swap the bridge pickup for a humbucker-sized single coil or route the body to accept a full humbucker.
What kind of finish works best on a T-style build?
T-style guitars look great with almost any finish. A natural or sunburst finish shows off the wood grain on ash bodies. Solid colors work well on alder. The flat body shape makes finishing easier than contoured designs.
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.