Build Guitar Necks With Confidence
Build great-playing necks step by step, with real guidance and a community of builders behind you every step of the way
If you’re comfortable building bodies but still hesitate when it comes to necks, you’re not alone.
As players, we know how critical the neck is for a guitar that plays well. So as builders, we also understand that necks demand more precision, and that there’s more that can go wrong.
Inside GMA’s Building Guitar Necks course, we walk through each step one small bite at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed. As you follow the steps, your skills build, and your confidence grows. No more second-guessing.
Why Neck Building Feels Intimidating
A Process That Actually Makes Sense
Here’s how it works:
Lessons are short and easy to re-watch, so you can quickly find exactly what you need, whether that’s for a quick refresher or a confidence boost before your next step.
The video lessons are far better than any type of YouTube tutorial I have ever seen.
These are comprehensive, in-depth, detailed lessons that go step by step throughout the process.
Chris H (USA)
You Don’t Build Alone Here
Most builders work in basement and garage workshops.
They don’t have a local luthier school or a group of builders nearby.
That isolation slows progress.
When you join GMA, you’ll have:
Inspiration is really important.
I’ve done more since I joined GMA than I have in the last several years of just messing around. Thanks to everybody for sharing your advice and your experience. It really helps.
Matt Z (USA)
Absolutely fabulous.
I’d probably still be sitting on the fence if it wasn’t for this wonderful group, wonderful training modules, and all the support you get from its members.
Keith E (Canada)
You’re not just watching lessons. You’re part of a working group of builders who are right there with you.
Discover a thriving community of guitar builders
Learn At Your Own Pace, Or Join A Bootcamp
You can work through GMA courses at your own pace, making them great for a busy schedule.
Or you can join a Neck Building Bootcamp. In our Bootcamps, we walk through the course lesson-by-lesson with weekly livestreams. Everyone builds at the same time, so we’re all at the same step.
You can ask questions as they come up and we problem-solve in real-time as a group. For builders who struggle with perfectionism or procrastination, the Bootcamp structure provides the accountability to keep moving forward.
The hardest part is getting started
GMA is a big help because the courses are very clear and easy to follow, and joining a Bootcamp means other people are learning right along with you. Learning from each other and sharing the experience is really motivating.
Matt Z (USA)
See why GMA members love Bootcamps
Real Builders. Real Necks.
Hear from builders who are working through the course right nowEverything You Need to Build Your Neck
The course takes you through building a neck from start to finish with no previous neck-building knowledge.
If you haven’t built a few bodies yet, the Building Guitar Bodies Course is the place to start.
In The Course You’ll Learn:
The Building Guitar Necks Course is part of GMA’s full learning pathway.
When you join GMA, you also get:
Still Have Questions?
Q: I’ve never built a neck before. Is this too advanced for me?
A: Not at all. This course is designed for first-time neck builders. Mike breaks every step down into clear, manageable lessons. If you can build a simple slab body, you can build a neck with the right guidance.
Q: What if I haven’t built a guitar body yet? Should I start there first?
A: If you want to build necks someday but haven’t built your first body yet, don’t worry. The GMA Building Guitar Bodies Course will get you up to speed. After that, you can move on to building necks. GMA meets you wherever you are in your building journey and gives you a clear path forward.
Q: What if I don’t have all the tools?
A: Mike shows you what tools you need and offers alternatives for different budgets. You don’t need a fully stocked pro shop to get started.
Q: I’ve built necks before but want to learn advanced techniques. Will this help me?
A: The course covers foundational skills where you’ll refine your process and build repeatable systems. It also teaches how to make the required jigs, and optional advanced techniques like resawing your own fretboard blanks and creating custom wooden face dots. You’ll come away with skills you can build on in the future to tackle more advanced neck builds.
Q: What if I get stuck and need help?
A: That’s what the GMA community is for. You’ll have access to weekly live Q&As with Mike, ongoing member discussions, and support when you need it. You can also join the next available Bootcamp, where you’ll work through the course along with other members, supported by weekly dedicated Bootcamp livestreams. You’re never alone in the process.
Q: What if I can’t keep up?
A: No Problem. The courses are broken down into bite-sized lessons that you can watch at your own pace. There’s no need to rush. If you join a live Bootcamp, don’t worry. They’ve been designed to take things one step at a time, with lots of opportunity to ask questions.
Ready to Build Your First (or Best) Neck?
If neck building has been the thing holding you back, GMA is your clear path forward.
Join the Guitar Makers Alliance, work through the Neck Building Course, and before you know it, you’ll have built a neck you’re proud to put on your guitar.
A quick hello if we haven’t met
I’m glad you’re here.
