Building a Cigar Box Guitar 101

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Building a Cigar Box Guitar 101

This group is for discussing the basics of CBG building for newer builders - where to start, what to do, common pitfalls, tips and techniques.

Keep in mind that new builders can find other great informative articles on CBG building, as well as most of the parts you'll need, over at C. B. Gitty Crafter Supply!

Members: 1746
Latest Activity: Mar 20

Discussion Forum

Cutting deep boxes in half

Started by Justin Stanchfield. Last reply by Taffy Evans Mar 20. 9 Replies

Attention 1st time builders!

Started by BrianQ.. Last reply by MadGomer Feb 27. 2 Replies

Brickhouse CBG Wiring

Started by Ian Boyd. Last reply by Ian Boyd Dec 11, 2023. 1 Reply

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Comment by MadGomer on September 29, 2017 at 9:04am
I will split the middle between Michael and Anonymous. I prefer a hole saw with light pressure and a backup board, but have used forstner bits successfully too. Again, light pressure and a backup board. I really dislike spade bits on thin material where you want a reasonably clean edge.
Comment by the anonymous pick on September 29, 2017 at 7:18am

forstner bits are your friend.  spade bits work not too bad  either. 

go slow and put a scrap piece of wood inside no matter what you use , so you dont harpoon the back of the box  during breakthrough .

Comment by Michael Fred Johnson on September 29, 2017 at 6:04am

For the access I add a ply reinforcement inside,cut the hole,the add a metal plate outside

Comment by Michael Fred Johnson on September 29, 2017 at 5:46am

The easiest way to cut a hole is to use a hole saw,see photo,Then use hot glue to retain the trim

Comment by Chuck Groves on September 29, 2017 at 4:15am
First post. First guitar. First questions: I purchased a screened dobro/resonator sound hole cover and am hoping to get suggestions on the best ways to cut the 1 7/8 inch hole for it and how to attach it. Also asking for suggestions on how to make an access panel in the back of the body. It doesn't look like I can post pictures on this thread. :(
Comment by Jim Morris on August 31, 2017 at 8:43am

Thanks for the kind words Mark! Yeah Ken, I've made over 20 CB Fiddles in the last few years and I 'd be happy to answer any questions you might have. You said you already have some ideas and I think ideas are always a good start. Here's a look and listen to one from last year.

https://youtu.be/vmqqswAoRrU

Comment by Mark Bliss on August 31, 2017 at 5:47am

Much more info here.

IMO, one of the more knowledgeable members on the subject is Jim Morris. He knows his stuff.

Comment by Ken Golding on August 31, 2017 at 5:25am

I want to make a cigar bow violin for my daughter.  I've got some ideas on how I want to do it.  I was wondering if any of you have made one before.

Comment by Slow Blues Dani & Ol' Grey Bear on August 6, 2017 at 9:04pm
Mine's been gone kaput for years anyway Mark. A little (or a lot) more back breakage isn't going to make much difference lol

Don't forget to post the video of it once it's built, Thomas! I already have a Castrol oil can six string guitar so my "I need a can build" demon is satisfied lol
Comment by Mark Bliss on August 6, 2017 at 2:34pm

I am thinking my back might need a truss rod after playing this beast for more than about 5 minutes.....

 

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Discussion Forum

Cutting deep boxes in half

Started by Justin Stanchfield. Last reply by Taffy Evans Mar 20. 9 Replies

Attention 1st time builders!

Started by BrianQ.. Last reply by MadGomer Feb 27. 2 Replies

Brickhouse CBG Wiring

Started by Ian Boyd. Last reply by Ian Boyd Dec 11, 2023. 1 Reply

Fretless fret markers

Started by Michael Myers. Last reply by Michael Myers Apr 20, 2023. 8 Replies

canjo building and tuning

Started by Brenda. Last reply by MadGomer Dec 3, 2022. 5 Replies

Minimum tools needed

Started by Wichita Sam. Last reply by Taffy Evans Nov 14, 2022. 21 Replies

High G problem

Started by Michael Myers. Last reply by Taffy Evans Nov 3, 2022. 4 Replies

Doubling the high string

Started by Robert Killen. Last reply by Paul Craig Oct 14, 2022. 23 Replies

Aluminum License Plate

Started by Larry Sobol. Last reply by Larry Sobol Oct 1, 2022. 6 Replies

C. B. Gifty three string fretless kits.

Started by jon neet. Last reply by Taffy Evans Aug 16, 2022. 6 Replies

Frettin' and stainin'

Started by Doug Laffin. Last reply by Order99 Aug 11, 2022. 4 Replies

Bolt on neck to a set neck body?

Started by Paul Craig. Last reply by Paul Craig Jul 17, 2022. 14 Replies

Locations

Started by Roy Smith. Last reply by the anonymous pick May 15, 2022. 2 Replies

Help please re Bento Box Uke "nut"

Started by Al Lobe. Last reply by BrianQ. May 10, 2022. 18 Replies

Clarification on pick ups

Started by Michael Myers. Last reply by Taffy Evans May 6, 2022. 5 Replies

Licence plate cbg

Started by Michael Myers. Last reply by Michael Myers May 2, 2022. 5 Replies

Builder's Tips

Started by Wichita Sam. Last reply by MadGomer Feb 23, 2022. 2 Replies

Getting there but needing advice/help please.

Started by Lionhound. Last reply by MadGomer Feb 18, 2022. 8 Replies

Tres Cubano Build

Started by Paul Craig. Last reply by Paul Craig Dec 9, 2021. 18 Replies

CB Gitty Country Roads Banjo kit

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