Ordering a handmade guitar is a pretty new experience for most people, so I want to make sure you know what to expect from start to finish!

Get in touch.

So you’ve had a look around my website, followed me on insta for a while and you like what I’m doing - the next step is to fill out the contact form to start the conversation! You don’t have to have all the details together or specs figured out, we can chat through that together. Some people like to get to know me over a Zoom call and go through details that way.

Lock in with a deposit.

Once we’ve worked out what your build will entail, the next step is to sign off on a contract and pay a deposit, which is around 20% of the build price. This goes toward the price of the instrument, but is non-refundable once parts have been ordered.

Follow along the journey.

Usually there’s a bit of time between when the deposit is paid and when I start building, but once the ball is rolling I’ll do my best to document the builds and send through photos along the way. Sometimes there’ll be periods of quiet (like while the finish is curing) but I’ll keep you informed.

Payments.

I can split the remaining amounts across the build process in a way that works for you - either in a few payments or a lump sum at the end. I accept credit card, or direct deposit (for Aussies). Final payment needs to be made before shipping.

The wait.

Waiting can be tough, especially when your guitar seems to be finished! After final assembly I like to let the guitar acclimatise to being and instrument - the transformation from tree to guitar can be a tough one, so I like to give it a chance to work out any weirdness before I do any final setup. I like to take some glamour shots and record some demos in that time. Once it’s ready I’ll pack it up, prepare it for shipping and book the courier! Shipping often takes a week to ten days depending on where you are, and I provide insurance and tracking details. Shipping is usually handled by UPS or DHL.

The honeymoon.

Your new J.Parsons instrument has landed, and you’ve got it tuned up and making music - we love to see these first moments, so please tag us on Instagram! Over the coming weeks or months, you may notice things shifting around, and maybe it buzzes or the strings get too high - this is normal, as Tasmania has a climate that’s opposite to most parts of the world. Wood shifts according to humidity and temperature, and this affects playability. Find a reliable guitar tech and make friends with them. They’ll help you keep your instrument in top shape. Of course, if there’s something seriously wrong that needs attention, I’ll work with you to get it resolved.