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Pricing & Commission

Every Carlson guitar begins with a conversation. Rather than choosing from a fixed menu of configurations, each commission is developed around the player while preserving the design, voice, and identity that define Carlson Guitars. The information below outlines the starting price, what is included, how a commission takes shape, and how to inquire about current availability.

Carlson guitar commissions currently begin at $4,950

The base price represents a fully realized Carlson guitar—not a simplified instrument intended to become complete through upgrades. Every guitar receives the same attention to voicing, structure, playability, fit, and finish, regardless of model.

Included at the Base Price

Materials & Construction

• East Indian rosewood or mahogany back and sides

• Sitka spruce or Western red cedar soundboard

• Spanish cedar neck

• Indian ebony fretboard and bridge

• Florentine cutaway

• Modern radial bracing system

• Individual voicing throughout construction

• Player-specific neck shaping and final setup

• High-gloss finish

The base price includes the standard materials, standard appointments, construction, case, and warranty listed above. Alternative tonewoods, rare or highly figured sets, custom appointments, and additional features may be available by request and are quoted individually.

Appointments & Ownership

• Standard Carlson inlay and appointments

• Custom-fit, Carlson-branded molded flight case

• Final inspection and setup before delivery

• Two-year limited warranty

• Direct support from Carlson Guitars

Customization & Individual Quoting

Every commission allows room for individual expression while preserving the design and identity of the chosen Carlson model. Alternative tonewoods, bindings, purflings, rosette and inlay treatments, player-specific dimensions, and select additional features may be discussed during the commission process.

Because material costs and the scope of custom work can vary considerably, options beyond the base specification are quoted individually. Each addition is considered in relation to the instrument as a whole rather than presented as part of a fixed upgrade menu.

Deposit & Payment

A $1,000 non-refundable commission deposit is required to reserve a place in the build schedule. The deposit is applied toward the total purchase price of the instrument.

Commissions involving rare, exceptional, or special-order materials may require a larger initial payment so those materials can be purchased or reserved specifically for the build. Any additional amount will be disclosed in the final quote and applied toward the total price.

The remaining balance is due upon completion. The guitar will not be released, delivered, or shipped until payment has been received in full and cleared. Shipping, insurance, and any applicable taxes are the responsibility of the buyer and will be invoiced separately.

The Commission Process

1. Begin the Conversation

2. Define the Instument

3. Reserve the Commission

Every commission begins with a conversation about the player, musical goals, preferences, and the kind of instrument they are looking for.

The model, materials, dimensions, appointments, and other specifications are discussed and developed into a final proposal and quote.

Once the specifications and terms are accepted, the signed commission agreement and required deposit reserve a place in the build schedule.

4. Build and Refine

5. Completion and Delivery

Materials and final details are confirmed before construction begins. The guitar is then built, voiced, and refined individually, with progress shared throughout the process when appropriate.

Once the instrument is complete, the remaining balance, shipping, insurance, and any applicable taxes are invoiced. The guitar is released or shipped after payment has been received and cleared in full.

Current Availability

My build schedule includes private commissions, dealer instruments, and select independent builds. Because the balance between these projects changes throughout the year, availability and estimated completion timing are discussed individually.

Please reach out for current availability or to begin a conversation about a future Carlson guitar.

From time to time, completed instruments may also become available outside of a private commission, either directly from Carlson Guitars or through select dealers.