From Hobby to Career: How to Make a Living in Lutherie

A practical guide for luthiers.

Making a Living in Lutherie: From Amateur to Professional

by Nigel Forster

What is this about?

A no-nonsense guide to making your living from instrument making and repair — not with gimmicks or marketing tricks, but by getting control of your time, workspace, mindset, and habits.

This is not a book about how to build guitars. It is about how to build a life doing it — without burnout, stress, or financial chaos.


“There is a lot of information available about how to build an instrument but not much available about how to make a living doing it. Nigel addresses topics  and gives advice that every craftsman can benefit from. I wish this information had been available when I took the plunge from amateur to full time luthier.”  

Robert O’Brien, professional luthier, teacher.

Why you need it

You already know how to work with wood? But if you:

• Waste time and don’t know where it goes.
• Struggle to stay organised or keep your bench clear.
• Feel overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck in chaos.
• Are good at building and repairing, but bad at running a business.
• Wonder if you’re really cut out for full-time lutherie?

…then this book was written for you.

What you get

• Over 150 pages of honest, experience-based advice.
• A practical approach to time management, focus, and clarity.
• Guidance on handling customers, avoiding “energy sinks,” and saying no.
• A complete rethink of how your workshop runs — physically and mentally.
• Tools to help you enjoy your work and make a decent living.

You’ll learn how to

• Audit your time and spot where it’s leaking away.
• Cut distractions and bad habits.
• Stay motivated without relying on guilt or stress.
• Deal with difficult situations and learn to avoid them in the first place.

Delivered as a full-length PDF. Instant download.

Who am I to tell you?

I’m Nigel Forster. I’ve been a full-time luthier since 1988, building guitars, bouzoukis, and mandolins.

I’ve made the mistakes, lived the reality. This book is based on 35+ years of learning what works — and what doesn’t — when your craft is your livelihood.

How much is it?

US$25.00
Instant download. No fluff. No subscription. Yours to keep.

How to buy it

Click the button to check out securely through Payhip.
Once your purchase is complete, you’ll receive a download link right away.