Guitar Geek’s dreams are filled with gorgeous guitars. Images of Brazilian Rosewood, Adirondack spruce, Cocobolo, and many other tonewoods tantalize guitar geeks near and far, but what may very well top even the most stunning tonewood is inlay done in a fashion that makes your heart skip a beat…
Huge thanks to Acoustic Tuesday fan, Tony’s Acoustic Challenge member, and Guitar Geek Dr. Dave B. for introducing all of us to this amazing luthier and inlay artist.
David Nichols is an incredibly talented inlay artist that flies well under the radar. David is responsible for not only some of the most beautiful inlay work in lutherie, but also teaching and sharing his craft with all who care to learn.
David Nichols is based out of upstate New York in a small community called Whippleville. It is here that he outfits guitars with some of the most magical inlay patterns that’ll be sure to make any guitar geek’s mouth water.
David specializes in custom inlay and his talent in this arena is vast. He has done custom inlay for artists like BB King, Johnny Cash, and many others. His work can be found on many custom and limited run instruments from the likes of the biggest guitar companies as well, but David doesn’t just do inlay.
Mr. Nichols builds some absolutely stunning instruments as well. Yes, it’s true not only does he do exquisite inlay work, he also builds acoustic guitars from the ground up. It doesn’t end there either… he also teaches his craft. He offers a few different classes open to the public on inlay specifically as well as guitar building.
If you happen to be looking to dress up your existing guitar with inlay, learn how to do inlay yourself, or even how to build your own guitar from scratch David Nichols is your guy and Custom Pearl Inlay is your place. I would start by digging into his site and checking out the gallery of some of his work… in short order, your jaw will be on the floor and you will be needing to clean up drool… not to mention the ideas will start to flow.
David Nichols & Custom Pearl Inlay Links
Hi Dave,
I posted a question on Facebook about sealing engraving filler on Ivory inlay on ebony bridge. Whether to seal or not and how. Several suggestions that you might help me with that. I used laskins filler in the channels.
Thank you for your time.