The Lutherie Journal
Notes from the workbench.
Practical, honest guides from the atelier — sizing, setup, costs and what to listen for when choosing an instrument.
8 April 2026 · 6 min read
How to Choose a Cello Size: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 or 4/4?
A luthier's guide to picking the right cello size for a child or adult — arm length, age guides, and how to measure properly.
22 March 2026 · 7 min read
How Much Does a Handcrafted Violin Cost? A Luthier Explains
Handmade violin prices range from €3,000 to €100,000+. Here's what actually drives the cost — wood, hours, varnish, and provenance.
14 February 2026 · 5 min read
What a Luthier Actually Does During a Violin Setup
The setup is what turns a violin into a playable instrument. Here are the seven adjustments every serious player should know about.
30 January 2026 · 6 min read
How to Choose a Cello Bow: What Actually Matters
Weight, balance, stiffness and wood — a working luthier's guide to choosing a cello bow that suits your playing.
12 January 2026 · 7 min read
How to Choose a Good Cello: A Luthier's Buying Guide
What to listen for, what to inspect and what to ignore when choosing a cello — practical advice from the workshop.