About This Course

A well-made backstrap isn’t just decorative — it strengthens one of the most vulnerable areas of the neck, adds elegance, and signals refined craftsmanship. But making one can be daunting. In this focused mini course, luthier Nigel Forster walks you through three different methods for adding a backstrap to a guitar neck: using hand tools and a bandsaw, using simple shop machines, and using a full professional setup with precision machinery. Drawing on over 35 years of professional experience, he explains the geometry behind a clean layout, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to choose the method that best fits your tools and workflow. Whether you’re adding your first backstrap or refining your technique, this course gives you the clarity and confidence to get it right.

Learn About:

• Backstrap geometry and clean layout
• Three practical methods: hand tools + bandsaw, simple shop machines
• Full machine setup
• Avoiding common design pitfalls
• Matching the method to your shop and workflow
• Tips for safe, accurate gluing
• What makes a backstrap both strong and beautiful
• Real-world examples from Nigel’s own guitars and others.