Guitar Repair Technician 301 (GRT301)
Guitar Repair Technician 301 is part of our Guitar Repair Technician mentorship program designed specifically for those interested and dedicated to working in the industry as musical instrument repair professionals.
GRT301 guides you through the complexities of advanced structural guitar repairs, where understanding materials, proper techniques, and restoration strategies makes all the difference. Offered only once or twice a year at select locations, this two-day (15-hour) intensive course draws upon the foundational knowledge you’ve gained in GRT101 and GRT201, stepping firmly into the realm of professional-quality restorations.
Day One will focus on evaluating damage, prepping the instrument, and executing critical initial steps in structural repairs. You’ll learn proper clamping methods, adhesive selection, and preparation for tasks such as headstock repairs, bridge re-seating, and addressing splits or cracks. By the end of Day One, these initial repairs will be in place, allowing adhesives and structural supports to set overnight.
Day Two shifts attention to reviewing the results of your Day One work, making any necessary adjustments, and performing post-repair refinements. You’ll learn how to blend seam lines, ensure stable structural integrity, and refine your techniques to achieve a professional, long-lasting result. By integrating the repair process over both days, you’ll gain a realistic understanding of curing times and follow-up steps, ensuring you’re fully equipped to handle real-world challenges.
Through small class sizes, direct mentorship, and hands-on learning, GRT301 provides the in-depth experience needed to master advanced repairs. Upon completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion, validating your newly gained expertise.
With GRT301 completed, you’ll have the hands-on experience and nuanced understanding needed to confidently tackle advanced structural challenges, setting you apart as a true professional in the field.
- Assessing structural damage and planning your repairs
- Executing initial repair steps on broken headstocks, acoustic bridges, and structural splits
- Proper clamp placement, adhesive choice, and setup for optimal results
- Evaluating overnight curing and making post-repair adjustments
- Blending seam lines and prior finishes ensuring a seamless, stable result
- Applying advanced restoration techniques to maintain acoustic integrity and appearance
- Instrument(s) in need of structural repair (or provided practice pieces)
- Pen/pencil & calculator
- Guitar mat, towel, or rag for securing instruments on tables
- Stable neck rest or cradle for stabilization
- *Selection of clamps and cauls suited to headstock and bridge work
- *Wood adhesives (e.g., Titebond, hide glue) and finishing supplies
- *Chisels, scrapers, sanding blocks for shaping and cleaning repaired areas
- *Reinforcement materials specific to structural repairs
**Supplies/tools marked with an asterisk* will be available for shared-use during the class. Some supplies may be available for purchase—please contact us for details or a class supplies shopping list.
