In a small workshop in Tholen (The Netherlands), I make bespoke guitars by hand. The construction methods I use are stongly informed by the Spanish tradition of guitar making where the instrument is build without a mold and with very few jigs and fixtures. Throughout the proces I rely exclusively on traditional hand tools instead of machines. I initially started working with hand tools because it allowed me to work in a small shop without disturbing the neighbours and minimise the amount of dust, but over the years going the "hand tools only" route has become a more deliberate pursuit. Overall it gives me a better feel for the properties of each individual piece of wood, and allows for a more intuitive way of working. 

All the parts of the instrument are made in the workshop, except for the tuners. As a vegan I do not use any animal-based products in the construction of my instruments. Synthetic alternatives are often more consistent in quality, and I have adjusted my methods where needed to make vegan and cruelty-free instruments without compromising the highest standards in craftsmanship and tone.

In my early years as a luthier I worked primarily as a restorer, performing extensive restorations on antique and vintage instruments. As such I've worked on many fine instruments ranging from 19th century romantic guitars to 1950-60's Gibson and Fender guitars, and more recently gypsy-jazz guitars by makers such as Busato and Selmer. The hands-on experience working on such sought-after instruments, together with my background as a musician have defined my approach of the instrument both from a historical, structural and musical point of view. 

Before I became a full-time luthier I worked as a guitar-teacher while performing in various bands and ensembles both in the Netherlands and abroad. I've also released several recordings including a full-length album. Currently I'm still teaching a small number of students, and enjoy sharing the knowledge I've gained in 30 years of playing the guitar.

More recent I've started making fine furniture and teach traditional woodworking. When I'm not occupied with woodworking or musical projects I'm working on my vintage liveaboard motorboat.