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Debutant! Where do I start?

Hey folks,
I'm brand new here and I haven't built a thing in my life. I'd love to dabble in some of this stuff but I have no expectations to begin by creating something equal to some of your beauties that I've been seeing. I have no experience and whatever skill I might have is yet to be discovered (maybe none?), so I was hoping you could direct me to some decent step by steps or checklists for beginners. So far all I have is a cigar box (though I haven't seen it yet as my friend has only promised it to me). I'm up for anything really, but would love some advice on what you think would be a decent project for a beginner like me.
Thanks,
Abe

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Permalink Reply by surffrogg on August 21, 2009 at 1:27pm

check the plans page for starters Abe there is a simple neck thru 3 string on there that also works for a 4 if u want to start even simpler could do a diddly bow whatever u want try first .U will here this again and again here there are no rules.Take all the advice and direction u can and put ur own little twists on it and enjoy.Guaranteed(and u will this again also) ur furst will not be ur last,and each one will get better
Welcome to our addiction

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Permalink Reply by Paul Doug on August 21, 2009 at 2:50pm

Abe, welcome to the form. Surffrogg is correct, that is a great place to start There Is also this CD that I bought that is just supper. Makes it soooo easy. Worth every penny to me.

http://cgi.ebay.com/How-to-Make-Your-Own-Cigar-Box-Guitar-Region-Fr...

What is a couple times and jump in.

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Permalink Reply by Wes "I'm Baaaaack" Yates on August 21, 2009 at 3:08pm

...I haven't built a thing in my life.

First, welcome aboard.

Ok, so what have you built? I assume you have basic skills with a saw and tape measure, yes? That is, can cut a straight line and measure twice. That kind of stuff. Like surffrogg says, there are plans. Brian Lemin has a really good one, and the first one in the list is basic enough anyone can make a CBG.

There will be more questions I know, but read over the plans and it'll all make sense. First thing to remember -- there are no rules.

Word of advice: take some time and look over the 10,400+ pics of our stuff (he he. No not really). It'll give you some idea of how some folks build.

Good Luck!

-Wes

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Permalink Reply by Nathan King on August 21, 2009 at 3:42pm

At first, I was pretty nervous too... no experience, no skills to speak of. Even more nervous seeing the incredible CBGs/works-of-art that some folks have built on here. But just jump on in friend! Don't be afraid to ask questions, since there are many people here who can and will have the answer. Who cares what it looks like, it's gonna sound cool! At the end of the day, all that matters is you have a unique little instrument you built yourself.

Then of course, you start planning the next one... :-)

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Permalink Reply by Wichita Sam on August 21, 2009 at 4:35pm

If you are really limited with experience and tools, consider a "kit". There are several builders that offer kits that provide everything you need, plus clear instructions. It will cost a little more, but you will be sure of getting a playable instrument first time....

the best,

Sam