N.K. Forster Guitars
Welcome to NK Forster Guitars
I’m Nigel Forster, an English luthier making handmade guitars, citterns, bouzoukis, tenor guitars and mandolins—now working from my workshop in sunny SE Queensland, Australia.
Formerly apprenticed to Stefan Sobell, I’ve spent over 35 years building instruments for players around the world, from touring pros to dedicated amateurs.
On this channel, you’ll find:
Step-by-step “How to Build a Guitar” tutorials
Behind-the-scenes luthier techniques and tool talk
Performances from brilliant Celtic and folk musicians
Whether you're a builder, a player, or just someone who loves beautiful instruments—you're in the right place. Subscribe and enjoy.
N.K. Forster Guitars
Ever thought about ordering a custom instrument—then talked yourself out of it?
Most players do. The process feels vague, the risks feel high, and it’s easier to stick with what’s on the rack.
That’s why I’m starting a new newsletter series. Practical, no-fluff tips you can use immediately to decide if a custom build is right for you.
Delivered straight to your inbox every week, so you can explore custom options without second-guessing.
Think of it as your personal playbook for understanding the custom process, without the sales pitch.
A brand new newsletter series will start in a week or so for players and musicians. Sign up if you'd like to learn more about ordering a custom instrument (even if it isn't one of mine).
You can sign up here:
nkfguitars.com/signup
1 month ago | [YT] | 2
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N.K. Forster Guitars
Luthiers - If you'd like to be able to make backstraps like this on your own instruments, check out my new video tutorial -
nkfguitars.com/tutorial
3 months ago | [YT] | 1
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N.K. Forster Guitars
Attention luthiers!
Quick heads-up — I’ve filmed a short instructional video on making backstraps for guitar necks and headstocks.
Three different methods. One simple goal:
Make a clean, professional backstrap — with whatever tools you’ve got.
It’ll be available soon.
More details shortly.
I've a newsletter just for luthiers if you want to be kept informed:
nkfguitars.com/luthier-news
Nigel
4 months ago | [YT] | 4
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N.K. Forster Guitars
Yesterday I published a little poll to find out how my fellow luthiers were wasting time. A few of you filled it in, others messaged me, or left comments on forums where I posted the poll. Thanks.
Most of you said “on your phone” and “Marketing that gets no results.”
Fair enough. That stuff eats hours — quietly.
But if you’re running a one-person lutherie business, time matters.
And when time leaks out the sides, money usually does too.
That’s exactly why I wrote "Making a Living in Lutherie."
It’s not about building better guitars.
It’s about building a better system around your work so the guitars actually get sold or repaired — and you stay sane.
nkfguitars.com/ebook
4 months ago | [YT] | 5
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