Philip Woodfield

Philip Woodfield is a British luthier celebrated for his finely handcrafted classical guitars that combine clarity, sustain, and expressive tonal beauty. With over 30 years of experience and more than 350 instruments built, he favors traditional hand tools, natural materials, and French polish finishes to achieve guitars that are both responsive and personal. Each instrument reflects his commitment to craftsmanship, playability, and the art of sound.

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Philip Woodfield – Guitar Maker

Philosophy and Working Approach

Philip Woodfield has been passionate about fine woodworking since childhood. His approach to guitar making is hands-on and organic, relying mainly on hand tools rather than machines to create a more personal connection with each instrument. He uses traditional glues for critical joints, and every guitar is finished exclusively with natural shellac.

Sound Quality and Playability

From the beginning, Woodfield’s goal has been to build guitars with clarity, sustain, and tonal separation. He is drawn to instruments that truly “sing.” His guitars are known for their pure, sweet tone and excellent projection. As a guitarist himself, he understands the importance of an instrument’s expressiveness and broad tonal palette. The guitar must also feel right—with a comfortable neck, responsive tuning machines, and an overall design that enhances the playing experience.

Longevity and Instrument Development

Woodfield believes that a guitar should sound vibrant and alive from the moment it is finished, offering a glimpse of its long-term potential. With proper care, the instrument will continue to improve in sound and responsiveness over many years.

Wood Selection and Processing

With over 30 years of experience and more than 350 guitars built, Woodfield has developed an expert eye for selecting tonewoods. Only a small percentage of the wood he evaluates meets his exacting standards. All materials are properly aged, and the building process takes place in a humidity-controlled environment (40–45%), which is essential for structural stability and longevity.

Finish and Playing Comfort

Woodfield takes great pleasure in applying French polish. Its deep, natural sheen is unmatched by any other finish. Technically, he considers it the best option—it’s thin, flexible, and does not dampen the tone. It also gives a warm tactile feel to the wood, and the thumb glides easily along the smooth neck. Although shellac is more delicate than lacquer, repairs are much simpler.

Client Communication and Custom Work

When building custom guitars, Woodfield values close communication with his clients. He shares progress photos and offers regular updates, ensuring that the customer is part of the creative process. Each instrument is a personalized masterpiece—crafted with care, collaboration, and precision.