David Richard, Luthier

08/26/2024

1921 Gibson A mandolin: new pickguard. When I bought this mandolin six or so years ago(from the daughter of the very long time owner), the original guard had begun to decay and outgas. I removed it and the hardware for future use and reference. I finally made a replacement, inspired by those 1930’s Gibson L00s, known as ‘tuxedos’, black with a white p-guard. I used ivoroid sheet stock, laminating and shaping as necessary, and reusing the original side clamp. Sheesh, I think it sounds better with the new guard attached!

01/18/2024

Whenever I am asked, by someone hoping to build a guitar, about how to proceed, I often suggest a kit, because even with much of the basic prep work done, a new builder will still have their hands full to complete the guitar. Well, I’m taking my own advice. I have here my own ‘kit’: the braced top and neck, from a ca. 1945 Gibson Banner J-45, and, the back and sides from a 1959 Gibson Southern Jumbo. They came to me as-is, and I will resurrect a complete guitar from the bits. I do not, unfortunately, have any good back story on the pieces. But they should produce a decent sounding guitar!

01/14/2024

Essentially a copy of Martin's C1 archtop of '31/32. Carved, x-braced spruce top, arched(bent) mahogany back, and sides. Ebony fingerboard with original bar frets. 000 size, with 25-1/4" scale length. Beefy v-neck, 1-3/4" nut, and 2-5/16" spacing at the bridge. I have the original one piece floating bridge, but substituted an adjustable one. Rings like a bell, and very punchy. Does flatpicking and fingerpicking equally well.

08/10/2023

Would the owner of the '30's Epiphone Spartan(in the UK), who contacted me about repairs, please re-message(or preferably email) me again? I'm afraid I've lost the message. Thanks.

06/01/2023

06/01/2023

1951 Epiphone Deluxe(the big 18-1/2" version, like an Emperor), played with my band Turnip Truck, on the old Bob wills number, 'Devil Ain't Lazy'. I'm repairing some binding damage, so the frets have been removed from the fingerboard extension, and it's awaiting a new replacement pickguard. But it sounds fantastic!

05/18/2023

1948 National Model 1135 17"Archtop(made by Gibson). 17", carved top & back(spruce/maple), dovetailed maple neck. Essentially an L-7, with National badge and inlays.

05/18/2023

1935 Epiphone Triumph: 16-3/8" wide, carved top & back(spruce/maple), mahogany neck. Old refinish(well done). NFS.

04/09/2023

My new retirement plan!

Abner Jay performs at the San Jose Flea Market on April 8, 1978.

Photo by Jon Sievert

12/22/2022

Now this is bee-u-ti-ful!

1929 Bacon & Day Silver Bell Montana #1 Plectrum Banjo Used