The Cigar Box Guitar Builder Podcast

Well this episode is a few weeks old but , as happens in life, things got hectic. There is a you Tube version of this episode available at 'The Cigar Box Guitar Builder' You Tube channel.  Geoff can be reached via his You Tube channel where he teaches how to play popular songs on 3 string box guitars. He is building a fantastic following and has a great catalogue of songs to learn. A HUGE thank you to all those people who are continuing to support the audio podcast. It's something I started in 2016 and I am having a ball working with Darren, Joe and Jesse to bring you a steady flow of CBG info and interview great builders.  Thank you as well to all those builders who have been supporting the show by telling their friends and using the affiliate link which helps us out immensely and allows me to keep it going! You can use the attached affiliate link to receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty. https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood Joe Oltean from CLUTCH CREATIONS and Jesse Thomas from HUMMINGBIRD GUITARS can be found on our group and you can see what I've been building at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thanks Adam Harrison

In this episode the team and I talk about being a grandparent (not me), me being the oldest team member (I know right!!!) and we answer your group questions. We also discuss being a full time, professional builder and why it can be difficult.  A HUGE thank you to all those people who are continuing to support the audio podcast. It's something I started in 2016 and I am having a ball working with Darren, Joe and Jesse to bring you a steady flow of CBG info and interview great builders.  Thank you as well to all those builders who have been supporting the show by telling their friends and using the affiliate link which helps us out immensely and allows me to keep it going! You can use the attached affiliate link to receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty. https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood Joe Oltean from CLUTCH CREATIONS and Jesse Thomas from HUMMINGBIRD GUITARS can be found on our group and you can see what I've been building at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thanks Adam Harrison

Oh my gosh! So much happened today! I promise I tried to do the video casting today but it didn't work. My WIFI is too slow for me to connect with Messenger. We are going to try a ZOOM meeting next. However the screen recorder worked but I had the audio OFF! It's a learning process. I'll see if i can put the audio and the video together some how.  Today Alex and Jessie took us through all the experimentation that they have been doing with noise makers and piezo/mag pups. It was truly interesting. We also discuss ways to work with softer timbers like pine and Oregon for necks and fretboards. Thank you so much for being a part of our show and we truly appreciate you.  Do you know that we have our own website where you can purchase T shirts to help support the show.  www.thecbgbuilder.com Joe Oltean, Darren Macdonald and Jesse Thomas can be reached via the Facebook group You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. You can purchase KILLER STRINGS from CBGitty.com in the USA and in Australia at www.birdwoodguitars.com Many thanks, Adam Harrison 

I don't like license plate guitars. I've never been happy with the sound of them when I've built them. The team and I have a chat about the problems associated with building license plate guitars (LPGs). Chickenbone John had some great comments regarding LPGs on one of my videos on 'The CBG Builder' You Tube channel recently that shed some light on some of the issues. We also discuss such diverse topics as the origin of the word S.H.I.T. and the performer Bob Log III.  Thank you so much for being a part of our show and we truly appreciate you.  Do you know that we have our own website where you can purchase T shirts to help support the show.  www.thecbgbuilder.com Joe Oltean, Darren Macdonald and Jesse Thomas can be reached via the Facebook group You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. You can purchase KILLER STRINGS from CBGitty.com in the USA and in Australia at www.birdwoodguitars.com Many thanks, Adam Harrison 

In this episode your Four Amigos discuss our latest builds and whether or not it is fair to compare piezo pickups to magnetic pickups. What do you think?  Do you know that we have our own website where you can purchase T shirts and CBGs to help support the show.  www.thecbgbuilder.com Joe Oltean, Darren Macdonald and Jesse Thomas can be reached via the Facebook group You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison 

Make no bones about it, Burt Philbrick is a VERY busy man. He builds an amazing array of 3 and 4 string guitars and CBGs, records amazing doom metal songs and videos and also has time to help people on our Facebook Group.  This is the first time that we have had five people on the podcast at one time and I want to say thank you to the team for being so awesome. You guys make this so much fun.  In this episode we discuss a wide variety of subjects including pickup winding, business vs pleasure, string choice, influences and the art of messing up.  If you'd like to see and hear what Burt has been up to you can via the FB group. He is happy for you to message him regarding his music or guitars. You can also go to his You Tube channel to view his work. https://youtube.com/@burtonphilbrick2681?si=ri6eqgAUYJnoljBf Joe Oltean, Darren Macdonald and Jesse Thomas can be reached via the Facebook group You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison 

Thank you for tuning in to this week's episode with Brayden Finchum from American Heritage Guitars. Brayden is an inspiring builder who makes one of a kind creations including some amazing washboard instruments. You can see Brayden's amazing work at; https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanHeritageGuitars You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison   

Welcome back! It's 2025 and I can't believe how quickly last year flew past. It's been a hectic time for everyone and I hope this year brings all of you much happiness and prosperity.  In this episode Jessie, Darren and I discuss such things as a possible group contest, YouTube influencers, website options for people who want to sell their instruments and workshops. As usual we tend to go well off topic, but that's part of out charm:) You can contact Jesse at Hummingbird Guitars at https://www.facebook.com/HummingBirdGuitarsbyJesseThomas Joe can be contacted at Clutch Creations at https://www.facebook.com/guitarsbyclutchcreations    We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy cigar box guitars, t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison 

For the first time the Four Horsemen of the Rockapocalypse are together to spread Christmas cheer and shoot the breeze about all things CBG. We don't promise a high brow conversation but we do promise a fun time:) You can contact Jesse at Hummingbird Guitars at https://www.facebook.com/HummingBirdGuitarsbyJesseThomas Joe can be contacted at Clutch Creations at https://www.facebook.com/guitarsbyclutchcreations    We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy cigar box guitars, t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

This week we have a catch up with moderator and all round good guy, Jesse Thomas. Jesse has been a constantly busy group member who specialises in building a whole range of incredible solid body guitars and cigar box guitars. Dazza has found a lifelong buddy in ply-wood crime! We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy cigar box guitars, t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Blues Boy Jag, AKA Bill Jagitsch is an elder statesman of the CBG movement. I've followed his builds and videos for years. He has some fantastic advice for players and builders and some great build tips. We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy cigar box guitars, t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

I don't use the term 'master builder' often but it perfectly suits today's guest. Joe Oltean is as humble as he is talented. His use of laminating, fine Japanese style crafting and an eye for the finer aspects of woodwork truly elevate the CBG to atmospheric levels. Joe also builds extremely playable instruments and can tear up a fretboard like a beast. He's a great bloke and we are very lucky to have him here on our group as a moderator. In this episode we talk to Joe about his epic undertaking of building eleven high quality CBGs at once. Not a job for the feint hearted!  You can find Joe on Facebook under 'Clutch Creations' and of course on the FB group. Order yours today, you won't be sorry.  The best place to listen to podcasts is in your workshop or on long drives. You can download the Podbean player, use iTunes, Spotify or listen from the Podbean website. Thanks again to my mate Darren for joining me on this new voyage of CBG discovery and inspiration. We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

There are days when I really think that I should never have started selling my guitars. I look at my Facebook group friends and marvel at the work they are doing. I'm often very envious of those builders (like our friend Darren Mac) who build for themselves purely for the love of it. TBH though, it's been a saving grace over the years (financially) to be able to sell them. So, spend some time with us as I whine and moan about selling on the internet.  The best place to listen to podcasts is in your workshop or on long drives. You can download the Podbean player, use iTunes, Spotify or listen from the Podbean website. Thanks again to my mate Darren for joining me on this new voyage of CBG discovery and inspiration. We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Rusty Taylor is one of my go to guys for great ideas and awesome builds. He builds for the love of it and does so with a great deal of gusto! He is humble and always happy to offer advice when needed and has been doing so for much longer than me! We seriously could have talked for a heck of a lot longer!!  The best place to listen to podcasts is in your workshop or on long drives. You can download the Podbean player, use iTunes, Spotify or listen from the Podbean website. Thanks again to my mate Darren for joining me on this new voyage of CBG discovery and inspiration. We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

We had so much fun talking to Alex. He is the genuine article, a builder who builds using whatever he can get his hands onto. His traditional building style provides him the opportunity to build truly unique instruments ranging from watering can diddly bows to twin neck and triple neck instruments. We hope this episode provides you with the inspiration to build something individual and personal. Thanks again to my mate Darren for joining me on this new voyage of CBG discovery and inspiration. We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

This week, Darren and I had a conversation with Loui La MAnna CBG builder and all round good guy. Louie lives and breathes music and loves to share his passion for building and playing with friends and strangers alike. He is happy to travel for hours to organise and attend festivals and promote our amazing craft.  Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

This week, Darren and I had the pleasure of speaking with the very cool 8 Ball Aitken. 8 Ball is one of the hardest working musicians to sling a CBG and he is full of helpful tips for builders and players alike! He has had an awesome career playing and recording the music he loves, rocked fans around the world and he knows what makes a good CBG.  You can find his work at www.8ballaitken.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube. Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  We have now got a dedicated website for The Cigar Box Guitar Builder, where you can buy t-shirts and other merch to help support and advertise the channel.  www.thecbgbuilder.com You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping rates and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Cindy Morris has to be one of the busiest people in our cigar box guitar community. She and her partner Steve Arvey are tireless advocates and ambassadors for CBG music for both players and builders. Darren and I are so thankful for her help and support while we figure out how to promote our cause here in Australia. Hopefully you will be inspired to consider putting on your own events, whether they be build offs, teaching kids in school, swaps, festivals, gigs or even developing your own side hustle business. If you love playing and building CBGs then this episode is for you.  Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over US$100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

This week we were meant to be joined by Cindy Morris. However a scheduling problem arose so we will reschedule for next week. Thank you for your patience this month as a few issues arrose that prevented me from uploading an episode. But, we are back!  On this scintillating and extravagant episode, Darren and I talk about building CBGs (SHOCK HORROR!!), building a work shed, Shane Speal's new Youtube show and what we thought was the demise of his Snake Oil Band. Please consider joining THE CIGAR BOX GUITAR BUILDER group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1293715283982291/ Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

This week Darren and I had the pleasure of speaking with Steve Arvey. Steve has been a tireless advocate and ambassador for the cigar box guitar community. He is a player, occasional builder and organisor of cigar box guitar festivals in the States and has travelled to Europe and Australia playing and promoting all things cigar box guitar. Darren and I were blown away by Steve's positivity and great ideas and we will certainly be talking with him again very shortly in relation to helping us promote CBGs and their music through festivals, here in Australia. If you'd like to check out Steve's website, you can at https://www.stevearveymusic.com/    Please consider joining THE CIGAR BOX GUITAR BUILDER group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1293715283982291/ Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Darren and I were blown away by the awesome videos that the group put up on the CBG Cover Band Challenge. This week was AC/DC and the winner was George Huston. Well done mate! This week is CCR. I would like to compile all the videos into an archive for reference for group members so get those videos in! Please consider joining THE CIGAR BOX GUITAR BUILDER group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1293715283982291/ and of course the FRETLESS CIGAR BOX GUITARS group https://www.facebook.com/groups/208729153079436/   Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

I have been a big fan of Michael Pinkerton and his Facebook group, 'Fretless Cigar Box Guitars'. He is what I would refer to as an inspiring and humble master builder. He uses hand tools to craft the most wonderful menagerie of incredible exotic and blues 'n' roots instruments. Darren and I were both gob smacked by his builds, some of which I have uploaded to the group.  Please consider joining THE CIGAR BOX GUITAR BUILDER group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1293715283982291/ and of course the FRETLESS CIGAR BOX GUITARS group https://www.facebook.com/groups/208729153079436/   Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

What do you do when you hit the doldrums? When inspiration dies? When everything just sucks??? That is what has afflicted both Darren and myself over the last few months. There are things you can do. Most importantly, we are here to listen to you. Post your worries in the group. There are literally thousands of wonderful people here who are more than willing to help you up.  Another question I posed to Dazza was, "Should our expectations of perfection rise the more expensive a CBG is?" Shane Speal released a fantastic video about CBG expectations a few years ago  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yllHolhWn14&t=413s He's talking about the imperfections that make these instruments so perfect in our eyes. However add large sums of money to the equation and the expectation may be that they are expected to sound and feel more like a traditional instrument. Thoughts please?! Thanks again to my friend Darren for joining me on this CBG extravaganza.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Today, Darren and I discuss the ins and outs of building a cigar box guitar business. Of course, our points of view are just that. Please feel free to comment in the group or here. Darren and I love building CBGs and we thank you for listening to the podcast.  You can see what I have been up to on the Facebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder that Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Today, I got the opportunity to interview another one of my CBG heroes! William 'Bill' Jehle is an author and CBG enthusiast who is also a physicist! He is the author of, 'One Man's Trash',2010 and 'Cigar box Ukulele' 2016. If you are interested in cigar box guitars you NEED to buy 'One Man's Trash' A history of the cigar box guitar.  He has just released a new book 'The Cigar Box Guitar Amplifier Notebook' I had the privilege of proof reading the book prior to publication and enjoyed it immensely.  You can contact Bill Jehle at www.cigarboxguitar.org You can also contact him via Facebook. You can see what I have been up to on the Facrebook group and at www.birdwoodguitars.com Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.  A reminder bthat Australian and New Zealand customers benefit from reduced US shipping options and a free cigar box with every order over $100. Many thanks, Adam Harrison

Oh wow this episode was fun!! Jim and I have been trying to catch up for an episode for a couple of years now and he certainly didn't disapoint! Jim builds amazing 3, 4 and 6 string solid body guitars as well as his own style of cigar box guitars. He is an incredible builder who has a great sense of humour and you can tell he loves what he does.  If you'd like to contact Jim for a build enquiry, you can at www.junksvilleguitars.com As ever I am joined by my mate Darren who is also an incredibly talented builder and dead set funny guy.  Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker, Shane Speal and the team at C.B.Gitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.

Del Puckett has been an inspiration to so many cigar box guitar builders, including Darren and myself. He is bristling with energy and positivity and I truly feel that he is one of the greatest promoters of these incredible instruments. Darren and I had a fantastic time chatting with Del and asked him the questions you wanted answered in our group.  Del took the time to let us know about how he began building guitars, keeping his inspiration and all about the CBG festival he will be putting on in a few months.  Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at CBGitty for supporting the podcast.   If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.

Well I'm alone today. Our interview fell through this week due to unforeseen circumstances and Darren is out of action due to the dreaded man-flu. I thought I'd take the opportunity to answer some of the questions that had been posed during this last week by you, our group members.  I have been building CBGs and guitars for the last 12 years and playing and setting up guitars since 1987.....Oh crap that is a long time!! Anyway, the way I do things may be different than the way other builders might do things and that is ok.  Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at CBGitty for supporting the podcast.    If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.   Big thanks from, Adam & Prince-the dog.

Welcome back to another episode of the world's numkber one, most favorite CBG podcast!!  Darren and I are joining you today to chat about all the interesting things that are happening in the group. New builds, new members and some incredible group contributions.  Adam gets super excited about the proper place to put piezo pickups and proves his point with a really cruddy demonstration with a beaten up, 8 year old, rusty CBG. Only the best content ladies and gentlemen. Darren shows his sensitive side by explaining his grandson's latest saying, which is, "Don't bite your friends".    Thank you for supporting the show and an enormous THANK YOU to Ben 'Gitty' Baker and the team at CBGitty for supporting the podcast.    If you need to order parts and want to support the show, you can by using our affiliate link https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood and if you use the promo code BIRDWOOD you can receive 10% off the price of your first 3 orders with CBGitty.   Big thanks from, Adam & Dazza! 

I've known Pete for about ten years now. He is an incredibly kind and generous person who always gave excellent feedback on my builds and helped me to develop my craft in my early days. He also gave me a car load of old timber to help me get started. Some of which I am still using today! He is a master builder who builds CBGs, electric and acoustic 6 strings and even makes his own pickups. He has a HUGE wealth of knowledge. He is an active member of the Cigar Box Guitar Builder FB group.  You can find Pete Veevers/Buzzard Guitars on Facebook and his guitars on eBay.  I hope you enjoy the episode as much as I enjoyed catching up with an old mate.  If you'd like to support this channel (and are looking for cigar box guitar parts) you can help by using the affiliate link below    https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood Use the promo code BIRDWOOD to receive 10% off your first 3 orders. Australian and New Zealand customers can now take advantage of much reduced shipping costs thanks to Ben 'Gitty' Baker.

Join me, Adam Harrison and Darren McDonald as we talk about recent activity in the cigar box guitar world. The conversation ranges from appreciating supportive community members, acknowledging the negative aspect of group dynamics, to the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere in every community, especially in artistic domains such as cigar box guitar building. We not only discusses community dynamics but also acknowledge the incredible work of guitar creators who've astounded us with their ingenious designs and creativity. With a special mention of Junksville Guitars for their brilliant and funky creations and Richard Pedretti-Allen's inventive use of cigar boxes to make charming tambourines. Towards the end, we share the nuances and challenges faced while drilling steel and constructing shovel guitars. The dialogue embraces several anecdotes from teaching music in schools to sharing personal experiences of crafting unique guitars, shedding light on the host's unique approach to customizing and the hurdles faced during the process. Engage yourself in this fascinating journey of imparting music knowledge to young learners, and enjoy a recollection of joining a band performing classic tracks. This episode not only delves into music creation but also touches upon other areas such as the art of drumming, exchanging instruments with friends and explores different musical genres.  So tune in to enrich your understanding of music, guitar building, and community dynamics. The episode ends with an open invitation to all listeners to share their stories and experiences in the future episodes, taking a step further in creating engaging musical content.  And remember, as Darren said, "Don't bite your friends." You can support this podcast by telling your friends and using the affiliate link to shop at C.B.Gitty and receive 10% off your first 3 orders.  https://www.cbgitty.com/?ref=birdwood Use the promo code  BIRDWOOD to receive 10% off the price of your order. You can also check out Adam's guitars at Birdwood Guitars. www.birdwoodguitars.com  

Welcome to a fascinating episode of the Cigarbox Guitar Builder podcast. In this episode, we jump back into the world of Cigar Box Guitar Building by resuming our usual insanity. I'm here with Darren McDonald, co-admin of the passionate Cigar box Guitar Builder and Facebook group admin. We are discussing build tips, share insights and experiences about some of the group's recent builds. Whether it's exploring unique aspects of guitar building, discussing different playing techniques, or highlighting the group's progress with more than 4500 members, this episode uncovers various facets of our vibrant Cigar Box Guitar Builder community.

It feels so good to be back in the interviers seat. Talk about rusty!! A huge thank you to Jason Heskins from JLee Guitars for agreeing to be interviewed. He has such a wonderful approach to building guitars and I hope you enjoy the show. Please consider supporting the show. The easiest way is to simply tell a friend or you could support us over at patreon. You can also give us 5 stars and leave a comment on whichever podcasting outlet you use.  Thanks again, Adam Harrison

Ok, in all honesty, I have to admit that I am a HUGE Del Puckett fan! I always wait eagerly for his Youtube channel uploads and I have learnt heaps from him. His enthusiasm is totally infectious and his guitars always sound great. So, it only makes sense that I would eventually choose to build a few guitars using his techniques. I did videos of these builds at the beginning of this year and recorded this audio around the same time. Ive just re-booted the podcast and thought it would be cool to upload this episode. I haven't spoken to Del about doing this but I hope he enjoys it if he does hear it. I have continued to build my guitars my way but truely enjoyed the experience. Please like and leave a review if you enjoyed the show. Next week we should be back to a more regular timing for episodes as I have really missed doing the show.  Adam Harrison

It's been a while but Darren and I are back with another fun filled episode of cbg building. There are many more episodes in the pipeline so thank you for checking in and please don't forget to subscribe. Also, please check out ' The Cigar Box Guitar Podcast'  instagram profile.  Big thanks from Adam and Darren

Ok, the resonating vibrator is a guitar that Darren made using a spring and a milo tin lid on the inside as a natural reverb. I'm just being cheeky. It's actually a Jack Daniels styled guitar which looks amazing.  In this episode we chat about the rediculous price of cigar boxes here in Australia and in other (non USA) countries. We discuss alternatives.  Also please check out two incredibly tallented bands; Cigar Box Serenaders and Cigarbox Man. Two incredibly tallented bands.  We will be back next month with episodes every two weeks.  Adam.

OK, this is a contentious statement. However, I've been lucky to have had the chance to build CBGs as a full time job. I certainly haven't done everything correct. In fact, I'm still dealing with certain issues as I run my business down to a hobby again. I'm not stopping but I have decided to get back to building guitars from the heart. I'm over doing made to order instruments as they became 'work'. Don't get me wrong I'm very proud of my work but it really was sucking the creativity out of me which is why I started doing this in the first place. So, I thought it was important to tell this warts and all story. Darren and I will be back shortly. Adam H

Ok, doing this podcast was more important to me than I realised. It's back. This first episode is with John Nickel. John taught me more in one episode that I knew in 2 years of building. A great musician and a very giving person.  We have a Facebook group called 'The Cigar Box Guitar Builder', please consider joining us for all the fun.  If you'd like to view my range of CBGs please pop over to www.birdwoodguitars.com Thanks for listening Adam (Birdwood) Harrison

In this episode Darren and I discuss whether handmade pickups are a financially viable alternative to ready made pups, the passing of Ted Crocker and some cool builds and builders we noticed this week.

I've known Darren McDonald for a couple of years. He builds roots instruments from reclaimed timbers and recycled boxes with an integrity that totally inspires me. He is a builder who isn't afraid of a challenge and always has time to say, "Hi" and give a helping hand. So when he agreed to co-host the show with me I was thrilled. I hope you enjoy the new format of the show and we would appreciate any constructive feedback.  Don't forget to check out www.birdwoodguitars.com as well as the accompanying Youtube channel of the same name. We also have a Patreon account of the same name and would really appreciate any support. So sit back and help me welcome Darren to the show. Adam Harrison Birdwood Guitars & CBGs

Jesse is a guitar and cigar box guitar builder from Randolph Nebraska. He builds a variety of awesome instruments ranging from ukuleles to 6 string heavy metal inspired solid body guitars. Jesse is happy to use whatever materials come his way and relies on his main trade as a carpenter to craft these cool instruments. You can find Jesse Thomas on Facebook and via our group. Please consider becoming a patron of our little show via our Patreon account at  https://www.patreon.com/TCBGB You can also check out my guitars and CBGs @ www.birdwoodguitars.com Big thanks Adam Harrison.

Today I got to interview Mella Miante from Barreldawg Band. These guys have been ripping it up on the central coast of NSW and really pushing the cigar box guitar as their go to instrument. Mella and I chatted about what her band is up to, building her first CBG and a plethora of other cool topics. Sit back, relax and enjoy. You can check out Barreldog Band's music on Youtube, iTunes and Bandcamp. Also please follow them on instagram @barreldawgband.  Be sure to follow us here and give us a review if you enjoyed the show. You can also join our facebook group and subscribe to our Youtube channel. Just look up 'The Cigar Box Guitar Builder'. There was a slight delay in our messenger feed. Thanks again  Adam Harrison www.birdwoodguitars.com

I've known Mick ever since I started building CBGs back in 2012. He has always been a positive voice urging people to build and enjoy cigar box guitars and handmade instruments. This was a fun episode and once again, I found myself heading to the workshop to find an old box to work into a guitar. Thanks Mick.  Please follow us on your chosen podcast provider and leave a review. If you have a cbg story to tell please contact me at birdwood.guitars@gmail.com  Thanks for all the support. Adam Harrison www.birdwoodguitars.com

Thanks for tuning in again. This week I was able to catch up with the wonderful Mike Snowden. Mike has been doing a weekly You tube show called Three String Thursday. On that show he shows off his awesome guitars and often plays very cool tunes. Pop vert to www.snowdenguitars.com to see his guitars. I hope you enjoy the show and please consider becoming a patron of the show. You are also able to hear this episode on iTunes and Spotify. Have fun and keep building Adam Harrison Birdwood Guitars

This episode is part of our 'business talk' episodes. After having a chat with a guitar building friend of mine who had a less than perfect experience with a customer, I thought it prudent to discuss how to positively deal with refunds and exchanges. Please take the information in the friendly way it was meant. The information contained herein is based on the refund policies from here in Australia and from my own experiences. Please check with your own region's refund policies. However, I assume most places would have similar policies. Please consider becoming a subscriber and patron pf the show. Regards Adam Harrison www.birdwoodguitars.com

Firstly, thanks for tuning in to the show. Secondly, please excuse the very ordinary recording of this episode. I am struggling with a mixture of ageing tech Vs new tech and a total lack of skill. There are some lags and drag at the very end of the show. Thank you to Joe or his patience. Having said that, what a great interview this was. Lots of fun and very informative. Joe is the owner of Clutch Creations and he is such a fantastically talented builder. He truly takes bespoke building to a new level without losing the fun of the CBG.  We are working to find an affordable and easy mixer to use for recording the podcasts.  Any (kind) suggestions are welcome. Best regards Adam Harrison

Hi it's been a little while. This episode is in response to a customer question about how best to clean a cbg. I thought it might also be a good topic for beginner or intermediate builders as well.

We are back for 2020!  This week I am interviewing Keith Crumbly of Crumblycaster CBGs. There is no intro music this week as I have had to switch to a windows computer and I have to find a mixer as I can't use Garage Band any more. Thanks for listening. Regards Adam Harrison 

In this episode I talk with Darren Pizel about his experiences building a cbg for a worthy charity. Darren is a new builder with a huge amount of enthusiasm and a willingness to help people in need.

In this episode Mark and I discuss how cool it is that there are so many different builders out there doing cool things with their builds. Using ideas from a variety of other builders is a great way to develop your own style and create your own masterpiece. However, just be sure to not copy someone's hard work exactly and pass it off as an original. CBGs can look somewhat similar at times but there are so many different things you can do with a CBG to make it your own. Also don't be afraid to share great ideas with our community. If someone uses your idea that is a really cool compliment.  Also a huge shout out to a young fella, Jack, who picked up his first CBG from me about a year ago. Along with his siblings, he is creating a real storm in his local community with his band 'HOLLOW POINT'. His playing is INSANE!! The future of rock looks good! Real Good! Once again, big thanks to our Podbean Patrons, followers on podbean and friends over at 'The Cigar Box guitar Builder' Facebook Group. Stay safe and keep building, Adam and Mark www.birdwoodguitars.com www.cbgemporium.com https://swampwitchguitars.weebly.com/ https://www.junksville.com/

In this episode Mark and I (Adam) discuss why some CBGs are worth a lot of money. Some CBGs are worth well over the 1K mark and we chat about some reasons for this. Along with the usual craziness that usually happens when we talk shop, we provide a word of warning about shop safety and cool tools. This weeks 'STAR GUITAR' was built by Group Member Tim Henderson.  Apologies if the sound is a bit off this week. I've been having tech issues. A huge thank you to our followers, you guys are ACE!!! Another enormous thank you and hugs to our Podbean Patrons. Your support is greatly appreciated. If you wish to support the podcast you can through your podbean app.  Keep an eye out for some podcast merch which will be made available at Redbubble soon www.redbubble.com Best regards Adam Harrison www.birdwoodguitars.com Mark Wilmot www.cbgemporium.com