Lefty Build

[blackdog946]

I've got a request to build someone a lefty guitar, its a first for me. Is it as simple as flipping all the templates over? This way everything is mirror image. I feel like I might be overlooking something here... thanks.

[Steve.Toscano]

Make sure you use a left handed chisel..

Seriously : Only other things that i can think of are fret markers, saddle slot in bridge (compensation), and electronics if applicable...

[kiwigeo]

Bracing may have to be rejigged if not symmetrical.....eg tone bars over lower bout if you're using conventional X brace design.

[seeaxe]

Being a lefty myself most of mine are built cackhanded.
From my reading including iirc the Gore Gilet books I have concluded there is no right and left side of the soundboard. So if it's a classical or non cutaway SS then you don't need to flip the bracing. ( you will find plenty of people who will say the opposite...your choice. I don't think it matters that much. If you're bothered use a Gibson symmetrical bracing pattern?) Obviously if it's a non symmetrical shape then you do need to flip the body and peg head template but that's it.

Things that might trip you up are the edge spacing of the strings on the fretboard ( usually different on a classical) the bridge saddle slot if you slant them.

If it's a leccy you may struggle to get LH parts, eg Tele bridge, scratch plate etc

Good luck

[blackdog946]

Solid body electric build actually so seems fairly straight forward. Just put in an order for left handed fretwire, chisels, and strings. Anyone know where I can buy lefty lacquer??

On a serious note, anyone tried wiring audio taper pots in reverse?

[jeffhigh]

You would not want to wire audio taper pots in reverse. It would be useless.
You can get the Lefty Pots from these guys
https://www.realparts.com.au/left-hand-parts.html