Where Might I Find a Metal Fabricator for Guitar Parts and Unique Instruments?

Looking for a metal fabricator to create guitar parts, such as tailpieces and other unique instrument components? Here are some steps and resources to help you:

Using the Yellow Pages and Online Directories

To start, look in the Yellow Pages for companies listed under categories like “die casting,” “metal stamping,” “sheet metal fabrication,” and “welding.” This can help you narrow down your search. Begin by making phone calls and asking about their services and availability.

While you can find people willing to do custom work, it can be quite expensive, especially for one-off parts. One-off production typically incurs a higher cost per unit compared to production runs with multiple identical parts. If you’re working on a prototype, try tackling the fabrication yourself. With basic tools such as a hacksaw, drill press, files, and patience, you can accomplish a surprising amount.

Exploring DIY Methods and Small-Scale Fabrication

You might consider fabricating the parts yourself, especially if you’re working on a prototype.

For instance, I fabricated a unique full-double-trapeze tailpiece for a mandocello using brass bar rod and sheet stock. The process involved only a few basic tools and a small thread-tap. This part has been performing well for nearly four years and continues to do so. Online resources offer small quantities of metal bar, rod, and plate, though the price per pound will be higher than bulk purchasing.

Locating Professional Metal Fabricators

For more complex or specialized work, consider finding a place that does die-casting. If you already have your parts in sheet metal, a metal stamping concern might be a good fit. However, be aware that tooling can be very expensive, often comparable to a mortgage payment, and you might need to provide engineering drawings.

For smaller quantities, a machine shop might be a more cost-effective option. Expect to pay a price tag exceeding $1,000 for a bridge and tailpiece.

Exploring the Age of the Maker and Micro-Manufacturing

If you’re venturing into unique musical instruments, welcome to the age of the maker and micro-manufacturing! CNC machining has opened up new possibilities. While there are still economies of scale, increasing numbers of companies are willing to take on one-off projects and provide for small-run orders, targeting start-ups and boutique manufacturers.

On your work computer, you can find numerous offers from companies willing to manufacture something based on your CAD files. I have engineers at my disposal, who can machine parts off whatever CAD files I send them. This capability extends to various materials, including metals, with processes like injection molding, laser cutting, and CNC machining.

To truly leverage this technology, it’s beneficial to get proficient in CAD. While there are plenty of professionals willing to translate your sketches into parts, using CAD is faster, cheaper, and gives you more control over the process. Autodesk offers free design software for hobby and personal users, and there are numerous platforms like Shapeways and Ponoko that allow you to submit files and receive your parts within a week.

As the technology and accessibility continue to advance, it’s becoming easier to break into the field of custom guitar part fabrication. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur, the tools and resources are readily available to bring your unique instrument designs to life.