That is my question for discussion.  I would like to call myself a luthier, but I hesitate.  I have built 21 instruments.   They all work.  I usually say I am an amateur luthier.  

I have built 3 string guitars, 4 string guitars and 11 ukes.  Do my own fretting, have built 5 boxes, albeit rectangular

Like most of us, I am self-taught, with a lot of help from you guys in the Nation.  I've made lots of jigs to compensate for lack of power tools.

I have been at this for 1 1/2 years and have sold about 8 instruments.  I am semiretired.

What do you think?.

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luthier
noun  lu·thi·er \ˈlü-tē-ər, -thē-ər\
Definition of LUTHIER

: one who makes stringed musical instruments (as violins or guitars)

OK.  I like that.

I have asked that very same question myself. The context the word is often used in seems to indicate an elevated level of expertise. What exactly that level is remains undetermined.

just  tell  them  you're  not  licensed  ,...  but  certifiable   ;-)

There's no licensing or required schooling or anything to become a luthier, so technically anybody can call themselves a luthier.

However, I think people will assume that you have expertise with "real" guitars.

Yea, I am sure the guitar snobs will make their point that CBGs are "not real instruments"...

Yes, Dan.  Real guitars are made in  far east factories by slave labor.  Ours are hand built in the Western countries by hobbyists or artisans.  Which are real?   : )  .

 

LOL...good point!

YA MON!!!!!!!

I totally agree, anybody can call themselves a luthier. So, it appears we are in this age self identification. 

I call myself a guitar maker...I've made hundreds of guitars, but I've never made a luth.

You mean lute?  I believe that is where the word comes from.

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