Are you starting out on your woodworking journey? If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to construct your own instrument, craft furniture, or just get the basics of woodworking down, you’re in the right place.

With the right tools and techniques, you can create anything you set your mind to.

Want some cold hard solid proof? Last year’s Carbitool #carbitoolmade competition winner, BB Guitars, used Carbitool products to craft his winning entry… a stunning guitar.

We caught up with Guitar builder and importer, Brad Butler and asked him for his top tips and advice to help you get started in this exciting hobby and discover more about how he turned his passion into a business.

Brad, first up tell us all about BB Guitars

BB Guitars is a relatively new and growing venture for me. I have been learning the craft with my own instruments for many years and started to import and refurbish guitars from Japan while offering local tech services. With a desire to provide high-quality workhorse guitars, using Australian hardwoods, I began building for myself which has finally led me to provide and take on custom builds.

When did your passion for woodworking start?

Woodworking really took off for me around 2019. I’ve always admired the craft of fine instruments and furniture makers hoping to one day get into it myself. When I finally had a permanent space to work in I committed to buying some tools and really dove in.

What factors do you consider when selecting the wood, where do you suggest looking?

When it comes to sourcing timber, there’s no need to look any further than Australia. Any dense, straight-grained, and not overly heavy hardwood is good to go, with Tasmanian Blackwood, Spotted Gum, and Ringed Gidgee being particularly popular choices for guitars. Reclaimed timber yards are an excellent option for finding well-seasoned, old-growth timber.

Can you share any unique or innovative techniques you employ in the guitar-building Process?

There’s honestly nothing special to my techniques other than exercising high attention to detail and pride in the work. If I wouldn’t want to put my name to the work I’m doing then it’s not finished.

You were the winner of our #carbitoolmade competition! What Carbitool products did you use to make your prize-winning guitar?

I used various Carbitool products in my #carbitoolmade competition-winning guitar, including flush-bearing guided bits, a rebate bit, a cove bit, and a quarter-inch straight bit.

What’s a piece of advice you would give to someone looking to get into woodworking?

Don’t be afraid to jump into the deep end. If someone else can do it, then with time and practice, you can too. With so many great resources available at our fingertips, YouTube tutorials, online communities and men’s sheds, everyone can learn.

When it comes time to practice your new skills, think and breathe before everything you do. Take your time and lean into the building and creator communities for advice when needed, the people in these spaces love to help each other and you’ll make some great friends along the way!

Carbitool has the perfect tools to help you bring your project to life. From flush-bearing guided bits and rebate bits to cove bits and quarter-inch straight bits, you’ll be able to construct a beautiful instrument or craft the perfect piece of furniture.

Ready to get started? Take Brad’s advice! With so many resources available online, everyone can learn the basics of woodworking.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start creating and don’t forget to tag @carbitool and share with us #carbitoolmade and follow Brad on Instagram for more woodworking inspiration @bb_guitars_au.