Mark W. Breneman is a long-time tech and ministry worker but has always enjoyed the idea of learning to play guitar. A few years back, as he hit the midpoint in his life, he decided to make the commitment and learn to play. Mark learned the basics and then discovered the world of boutique guitars. He then found he could join two of his loves, woodworking, and guitar. Thus a hobby luthier was born.
Mark works primarily with locally sourced wood, very locally sourced; most of the wood he uses was cut by his father with Mark’s help 30 years ago. Mark likes working with wood that has as much character as he does; interesting wood makes interesting guitars.
Mark has built some interesting guitars and always has two to four guitars on the bench. His favorite guitar is always the next one he is going to build. Mark is always looking to learn new skills and techniques. Often creativity strikes and the project ends up going in a completely different direction.
The debate between art and craft is always at the forefront of Mark’s mind while building guitars. Michelangelo’s quote, “The sculpture is already complete within the marble block before I start my work. It is already there, I just have to chisel away the superfluous material.” resonates in the building of bespoke guitars. Often the wood dictates what it wants to be, due to figuring, or knots, or simply woodgrain.
Through the art or craft, Mark likes knowing he is not overspending, but he does like nice things. That is one of the core values of the website, is to list out good value components.
FYI
Mark is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. He invests back into this site. The more earnings, the more reviews.
The items Mark recommends in the products section he has used. He has used most of the items referenced in the blog section or, in some rare cases, is drooling over and hopes to buy soon.
Demo products or services will be reviewed, and full disclosure will be given. Reviews will be fair and candid.
Contact Info
Mark W. Breneman