© Rodney Stedall Guitars 2021
Designed & Managed by Oraco Solutions Limited
Master Craftsman
Many years ago I started restoring old string instruments and shortly afterwards completed my first steel-string flat-top guitar by following the instructions in a book. This instrument sparked the beginning of my lutherie career and I still play it daily. Since then I have built many instruments, each one unique and crafted with care.
I have been a member of the Guild of American Luthiers (GAL) since 1998 and have had several articles published in the GAL Journal.
In 2000 I started the Guild of South African Luthiers to help raise the level of craftsmanship and the sound and quality of our instruments. I have given several workshops to luthiers and woodcraft guilds on the technique of French polishing.
In my travels, I always seize the opportunity to visit luthiers around the world and learn from these master craftsmen.
I have several luthier friends to thank for selflessly offering me guidance and advice along the way.
Mervyn Davis, the most experienced luthier in South Africa, for his encouragement during the making of my first instrument.
Colin Cleveland taught me rosette making.
Otto Vowinkel in Amsterdam for guidance on French polishing.
Eugene Clark in Seattle has guided my building philosophy through endless hours of email correspondence.
Mick Lazar in Canada shared his knowledge on elevated fingerboard construction.
And finally my good friend Garth Pickard in Pretoria for sharing not only guitar philosophy, but also his philosophy of life, plus introducing me to Spanish cooking.
Muchas gracias mi amigo.
Rodney Stedall
Many years ago I started restoring old stringed instruments and shortly afterwards completed my first steel-string flat-top guitar by following the instructions in a book. This instrument sparked the beginning of my lutherie career and I still play it daily.
© Rodney Stedall Guitars 2021
Designed & Managed by Oraco Solutions Limited
Uniquely Designed Guitars