How To Build A Do-It-Yourself(DIY Kit) '59 Gibson ES-335

[@akc5150]

Little tip here from someone who has painted countless guitars over the years. Once you have done your base white and masked up for the stripes, paint another coat of white before you put the orange on. That way, anything that bleeds under the tape is the same colour as your base and will seal the tape edge and give you nice crisp lines without having to use a brush for touch ups later! Nice design by the way.... Might do something similar myself!

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, akc5150! Thanks for the tip! That is a GREAT idea! I will definitely do that in the future.

[@NapalmBBQ]

akc5150 That’s genius!

[@tonkaGuy888]

Great tip. Also works when painting textured walls or ceilings : )

[@nelsonattwood795]

Another tiny tip, (from someone who was a custom cabinetmaker, doing my own spray finishes for way too many years), when you're sanding, especially at the end stages, a small foam sanding pad instead of your finger tips is a far better way to go. its possible to create nice ovally swirl marks from where your fingertips put extra pressure on the sandpaper. I cringed when i saw the first part of your spraying, but i readily admit it came out way better than what i thought it would. Nice Job! you've given me some inspiration to go and try a kit guitar of my own. thanks :-)

[@AROSFC]

...and if in the future you are going to make a clear paint, glue the neck aftet the paint, so you won't have absortion problems around the glued areas because....

[@mikeilkenhons8896]

Nothing as satisfying as playing a guitar you build,yourself. Especially when you are not a trained luthier. Some skill helps.. I built a custom Strat for my son’s graduation. A Warmouth 5A body Tiger Maple over mahogany. The body was semi-transparent red with very thin top coats of nitro cellulose. A ‘99 Custom shop neck from a trashed guitar. Zack Wylde EMG’s, locking tuners, blocked bridge. Later installed Jim Wagner’s hybrid set of Crossroad and Fillmore humbuckers with an SRV single coil. Five-way allowed splitting the humbuckers for another middle option. A vintage Fender collector said it sounded better than most of his high end custom shop Strats. We have built five amps from scratch, including the cabinets. Love doing Tweed era all tubes. No clones, just look alike that Fender never built. Keep at it and try an amp to make that guitar a real gem. Good job.

[@egenioz]

Nice video... Neck pickup is upside-down !

[@jom0bx189]

I would have probably done the finish first before gluing them together but in the end it turned out great so I guess whichever way would be effective for the builder is fine.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey JoM0BX, Thanks for checking out the video! That is an interesting idea. I don't think I have ever seen someone finish the guitar before adhering the neck to the body. I will have to look in to that. I appreciate you taking the time to watch the video and share your ideas.

[@jom0bx189]

Event Horizon Records thank you for sharing this video! Here is a kit build with a flame maple LP: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roXXcpmAo9WWo5Y A lot of the more complicated finishes for the top of the body that I have seen are done before the neck goes on. I think the difference would be between a single color finish like you did vs something like a stain. Obviously either way works. Thanks again for this video.

[@CARBr6]

Looks awesome. Great job, only one point, and I'll admit right away that I am not an expert in paint spraying, but from what little I have done, and seen rather than the little short strokes you are doing, you'll stand a better job of getting a cleaner smoother finish by spraying in long continuous strokes. Start the spray "outside" of the guitar and spray in a smooth stroke all the way across and finish again "outside" the guitar. Do that continuously for the whole thing.

[@MichaelScottPerkins]

Great video! Can you tell me which DIY 335 kit this is, and how you like it now, years later?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Michael! Unfortunately, they no longer make this exact kit. However, if you type, 'DIY ES-335 Guitar Kit', some options will show up. Sorry, I couldn't be more helpful, here :/

[@lasvegasira]

My only comment is that you probably should have sanded between clear-coats, and definitely done more wet-sanding after the final coat. There's a lot of orange peel in the finish. Cool looking guitar though.

[@shortbus5066]

I agree Dave. I'd like to add LOSE THE BRUSH! Spray coat will ALWAYS look better then the brush coat. Even a bad spray coat can leave orange peel, but trying not to leave brush strokes is a feat no amateur can accomplish.

[@NobodyAwsum]

Yea, i was cringing at how lightly he had sanded everything. It looks gorgeous like it is, but that high gloss finish cant really be had unless you wet sand all the paint smooth before and after clear and then buff & polish.

[@munkandbear2818]

Great video! I am amazed that the neck stays on with all the tension of the strings with that little of an area glued! I had a Gibson ES 135 built like this and never knew this is how the neck was joined together.

[@alwaysopen7970]

So much for 'Hide" glue.

[@darnright]

Great video with lots of great ideas!! Thank you! Loved the guitar when you finished. The only thing I didn't see in the video, which is VERY important (I'm sure you did this), is putting a ground wire to the tailpiece or bridge. Thank you again!

[@JoeLewis14]

Very good point. I think I may have unintentionally left that part out in this video. However, I did mention it in my "How To Build A Do-It-Yourself Bass / Electric Guitar' video.

[@swordofhonor2]

was it easy to-do intonation and set up after? I am afraid to set the neck not straight and not having a good playing guitar...

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Raphael! Yes. Good question. Someone suggested that I installed the bridge and some tuners, then put but the high and low E stings in places while I glue the neck on. That is a great idea to ensure it is straight. Lucky for me, it is straight, and I have had no tuning issues. Hope this helps!

[@noprob250]

REALLY GREAT SONG AT 11:37 ! Well done

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Harold! Thank you so much for the kind words, and I appreciate you taking the time to check out the video. That song was actually recorded using the song from the build. I loved the warm tone the guitar projected. Thanks again!

[@neverenoughguitars8276]

That looks fantastic. One of the best looking kit builds I've seen!

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Jaden! I could've done a little better on the finish, but really happy with the overall result. Take care!

[@collinTHEbrewer]

Great build! You might have better results on the finishing process if you use long, overlapping strokes when spraying the paint. It's really hard to not get it blotchy doing it in spurts.

[@Tolbens]

Congratulations!!! Great work that leads me to make my own guitar too!!! I have to overcome my fear If the result will be a uniform paint.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Tolis! Thanks, mate. There are a few things I would do different on this project, though. I am considering doing an entirely new build. If you want to see some of the things I did differently on a newer build, check out my 'How To Hydro Dip A Guitar', video. I posted the link below :) Thanks, again, mate! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXWqmCVn7-SpK8

[@leoferreira1504]

where did you buy the body and neck? amazing video

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Leo! Unfortunately, they no longer make this kit. However, you can probably find something similar. I just typed in ES-335 Kit. Hope this helps!

[@tedrenard472]

Hey Joe, nice job. Did the budget include a "redecorate lounge afterwards" section? :-) On the next one (yep, there's always a next one), it's worth changing the order of events slightly. Install the tuners and the bridge/tailpiece. Put the pickups in their rings & place them loosely in their positions. Install top & bottom E strings. Line up the two outermost pole pieces on each pickup so they're under the strings. Mark the holes for drilling to fit the mounting rings. That way, when you're done and string the guitar, all of the strings will run straight over the pole pieces, and you'll get a better sound and a bit more control over the sound when you do the setup (adjusting each individual pole piece to suit). Apart from that, nice one, like the unusual colour, and at least you can't be accused of having "orange peel" in your finish :-)

[@way2sh0rt07grad]

Can't wait to start mine. Always fun when you get to say you built your own guitar. Great job

[@JoeLewis14]

For sure! Thanks for checking out the video. If you have time, please send me some before and after pics; I would love to see how it turns out!

[@petedavis7970]

Wow, it's a shame the negative comments you've gotten. From everything I can tell, you've done a spectacular job. Reading through the comments and reading of the effort you went through to thoroughly educate yourself on the topic; I bet most of the negative commenters here have never put that much effort into learning something like this on their own. I applaud you for expanding your horizons and taking on new challenges and doing really amazing work in the process. The video makes it clear you had amazing patience. I might not have picked the same colors, but I can't believe that people would insult you over your choice of colors. That's so stupid. I think it looks fantastic! Great job, man.

[@minisniper99]

Pete Davis but the neck pickup is the wrong way...

[@rossiej70]

The bridge saddle is backwards as well. Was that the result of his amazing research too?

[@kcbc9037]

This was very enjoyable and relaxing to watch. The 335 came out beautifully and the fact that is it customized to your taste makes it that much better. I recently took on a similar project of completely refinishing a Squier Strat to replicate the feel of a 62. Looking back there's some things I could do differently but it has the uniqueness of the quirks that came with doing this sort of thing for the first time. Anyways loved the video. Cheers.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Conner! Thank you so much for the kind words and feedback, I really appreciate it. That is neat you rebuilt a Squire Strat(I am in the process of editing a rebuild I did as well), send me pics of how it turn out, I would love to see it. Mine is not perfect(I am probably going to post a refinishing video of it), but it is mine :) Nothing is more gratifying than creating something that no one else has. Thanks a lot for checking out the video. Take it easy!

[@1948steven]

My wet and dry sandpaper I usually lot soak in Mineral Spirits and or Water at least 24 hrs. When doing Nitro the Mineral Spirits works great. Just wipe it down well and reapply another coat in Minutes. But let and sit for 2 weeks before final buffing.

[@coreydelrosario6403]

Loving that pumpkin orange. Never thought to test if the pickups are wired properly by using another guitar. Always tapped in em with an allen key. I’ll try it next time i wire up a guitar

[@pdavio]

nice. a few tips to any that may follow. For the design features - use "fine line tape" available at any automotive paint shop. for the actual painting - long smooth strokes work best - do release pressure on the trigger over the object being painted - unless there is an effect you are looking for. The fine line tape will significantly reduce the "rework" you have to do here - with the razor blade.

[@connorgarwood146]

guitar looks amazing, love the added personality of the paint. only thing that i saw that id change is the finishing, with a bit more flat sanding you could get the "orange peel' affect off the guitar (no pun intended) it would really make that beauty shine

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Conner! Thanks for checking out the video. Good call on the finish. I wanted to check to see if the neck needed readjustment, before I put in two months or so on the lacquer and wet send. I had every intention of going back to refinish after I tested the sound and the integrity of the build. Although I annotated it in the title sequence and the description, it seems to be over looked, so maybe it would have been better if had made that more clear. Thanks for checking out the video, and giving the feedback!

[@alwaysopen7970]

The first job one gets at PRS is "sander". Look at the finish of those guitars and you know why.

[@LangenmayrS]

Unique color choices, i actually really dig it!

[@anthonyjames3074]

Very nice JL and your handling of some of the negative comments was "Zen" like. However, I wish I could hear what the "Shadow" was thinking. Although I think one of they guys below, "The Man" may have covered that base.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Anthony! No reason to get upset over some negative comments. Many times people have some good points, but don't know how to articulate them. I learned a lot from this build, and my latest one turned out even better because some of the criticisms. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@underwood9371]

I glad you said you were going to refinish, I mean orange peel! I know that doing this video and getting it out takes time enough and very glad you did it!

[@TheFredster-dk1bi]

Such a killer build a great color choice! Very satisfying to watch the process as well! Makes me want to build my own

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Fredster! Thank you so much for the compliment. Do it! You can! My only recommendation would be to watch my video, 'How to Hydro Dip A Guitar,' for the finishing. I love the colors, and everything else, here, but the finish left a lot to be desired. My hydro dip video's finish was 1000 times better. Good luck!

[@mrfatbobrider1969]

Cool gat ,is the neck pickup upside down or is that how you like it?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, MR FATBOB! Thank you sir. In all honesty, that was an oversight. However, I did like how it sounded and left it that way. It sounded lower to me.

[@mrfatbobrider1969]

@@JoeLewis14 yea cool ,worked for many people, sometimes we need to step outside the square and test the waters so to speak otherwise we will never know if there is something better outside of that square ✌😎👍

[@JoeLewis14]

@@mrfatbobrider1969 You are 100% correct!

[@JamesWalshBristolKids]

Whilst in Canada I saw a friend restore and paint a classic Corvette Stingray. He put 7 layers of paint and about as many layers of clear coat. I asked why ? He said it will prevent chips in the paint from stones on the road ~ while driving small stones can hit your vehicle. BTW: Cure time of more than a week is a good idea.

[@gamepad3173]

while some bits of that 335 kit is great and all. for my tastes I'm going to be swapping out the neck for a Birds eye maple tele neck with M6 Schaller tuners. for the bridge I'm going to swap that out with a Floyd Rose 1, and for the pickups I'm going for some wax potted pickups for a Les Paul, SG or a 335.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, GameDay! Yea, it was a fun project, especially as it was one of my earlier ones. The mods you mentioned sound like good upgrades to me. I would have done a few things differently, but alas, it turned out decent for my first build.

[@mackseven1]

Loved the video ... was thinking you were getting a little crazy with that orange at first but proved me way wrong I was impressed how well it finished up it looks awesome ... you inspired me to give this a go thanks for sharing

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Mac 1! I appreciate it, homie. I hope you do decide to build your own, it is quite gratifying to do so. I would love to see how it turns out. Let me know if it ends up happening.

[@tijsvan8474]

Mac 1 Dqyh

[@bpfarren]

I tinker with guitars.... great job...great detail...nice music.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Brian! Thank you, sir! That is neat that you work on guitars as well. I checked out your channel. Are those your guitars in the first video?

[@bpfarren]

@@JoeLewis14 yes indeed. A few of too many

[@Kaijru]

Is this a fully hollow or a semi hollow? Thanks!

[@shellyrickel8875]

Thank you for sharing this. Been interested in trying to build myself a guitar, this has inspired me to go for it & do my own.

[@dionemiguel7871]

sonho em aprender essa arte

[@JoeLewis14]

Você consegue. Apenas tente. Só é fracasso se você não tentar. :)

[@matth7952]

Beautiful guitar! I'm looking at getting a DIY kit for the Musicman Stingray bass guitar. Would I have to wait 24 hours after painting each layer and a week for the glaze or would that just be the best time to wait?

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Matt! I appreciate it! No, you do not have to wait 24 hours for each coat. Depending on where you do it(like on a warm dry day for example), you can do about a layer per hour(ideally a little more). It is always safer to wait a two hours or so. You will want to wait at least 24 hours per color(In my case going from white to orange). Then finally you will want to wait probably 10-14 days for the clear coat cure entirely. I suggest Stewart-MacDonald's Guitar Lacquer. It turned out GREAT on my latest build(which I will be posting the video for that build within a month or so). Hope this helps :)

[@brownie6451]

Looks nice! Kind of seems a little sac religious to cover up that flame top though.

[@alenkrupljanin9531]

This dude put together his own epiphone, Awesome

[@DickieboyBradders]

Excellent job and tempted to get one now ....where did you get the kit and who makes it ? Thank you 🙏🏻🎸

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Richard! Thank you, sir! Unfortunately, you can no longer buy this kit. They stopped making them about two years ago. The received a cease and desist from Gibson due to their similarities. However, I found one that LOOKS similar here (link below), although I cannot attest to the quality. Similar guitar kit : thefretwire.com/products/diy-electric-guitar-kit-335-style-build-your-own-guitar-kit If you do, just make sure you do a better finishing job than I did. I provided a link in you are interested to my newest video where I explain things much better, the finish is substantially nicer, and the overall guitar build looked very professional. Thanks Richard for the compliment and inquiry! How To Hydro Dip A Guitar : kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXWqmCVn7-SpK8

[@edwardbobryshev]

Hello! Is there chance to buy KIT like here?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Edward! Unfortunately, they stopped making these kits a while back. The company actually got a cease and desist from Gibson due to their similarities. i tried to find something similar for you online, the it is very difficult, for the head-stock seems noticeable different in just about every one I found. However, this one seems like the closest I could find to mine (link below). I cannot vouch for wood quality, but it looks awfully close to the kit I got for this build. If you come ac cross a quality ES-335 kit please let me know, for I'm sure a lot of the viewers of this video would be interested in. Thanks for watching the video and your inquiry.

[@captainvideo2]

Was it an oversight or did you intentionally paint over the binding?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, captainvideo2! I intentionally painted over the binding. It didn't seem to mesh well with what I was going for. I wanted a 'creamsicle' type of look to it. The binding was off white, and the black lines just wouldn't have looked right to me. Great observation, though!

[@panchoshark7259]

Love the way it turned out and now want a beer.What finish did you use on the fret board? I'm doing a hollow body Chinese Gretsch and the Danish oil finish on the fret board doesn't seem to be enough.

[@JoeLewis14]

Patrick Sharkey Thanks, Patrick! It's the weekend, so enjoy that beer. I use Dunlop 65 Ultimate Fetboard Lemon Oil. It does a pretty good job. I use it every time I change strings. My fretboard drinks it right up. Let me know how the Gretsch turns out. I definitely want to know.

[@jazzydog]

I came back to this video after 3 years. Once again great work man!. Question, did you do wet sending for each coat at the end before you do any buff? Thanks.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, My Fingerboard! Thank you so much for the kind words and revisiting. Honestly, my hypo-dip video does a lot better job of showing the process, and getting a better result. I am much more proud of the finished product, there. Check that one out if you have the time. I put the link below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXWqmCVn7-SpK8

[@jazzydog]

@@JoeLewis14 Will check it, thank you.

[@jamesmata2945]

It came out great. Really enjoyed the video.

[@74dartman13]

I have to admit, when you started with the color and the stripe design, I was like...uh don't think I'm gonna like it at all. I gotta tell ya and be honest...I love it! It turned out so cool! And I like the fact that you personalized it with your initials and what you like! I'll give you credit...it turned out really nice! A cool guitar that's all you! An original that's like no other! Really a badass guitar! I gotta build one myself! Great video...very inspirational! Thanks!☺

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, 74dart man! Thanks a lot for the kind words! Very cool of you! I love this thing, as mentioned in the description, there are obviously some places where the build could be improved upon, but it all part of the process :) I will be posting a new build here shortly where I clarify some of the points that may not have been clear enough in video. Thanks for checking it out!

[@74dartman13]

Event Horizon Records your video inspired me to build one of my own! Gettin ready to order a kit soon! Gonna be a Christmas gift from my wife. Can't wait! Enjoy that cool guitar and I'll look for future videos. Have a nice Christmas!

[@VacantCityDrifters]

very cool - congrats! ... it looks fantastic ... it leads me to a few questions: what grit sandpapers did you use at the various stages? how many coats of color before clear coating? how do you ensure that the neck angle is correct? did you do any fret leveling / crowning / end dressing? did it need any nut work? thanks for sharing this - very informative and inspiring to me to try my own.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, tone4days! Thanks for the kind words, and checking out the video! In this video! I intentionally limited the clear coat finish because I wanted to check functionally and tone, so this is not an ideal finish if you are not concerned about that. I did it this way with the intention of going back and adding another thin layer of clear coat to get rid of that 'orange peel' that so many of mentioned. I will be posting a video of a new build I am doing shortly that does a lot better job explaining how to get that smooth shine. With that being said, here are a couple of answers to your questions. The coats of color aren't as important as the clear coats. You just want to ensure the paint color is consistent (aka the primer is not visible). Yes, ideally the paint has even coverage, but this can often be rectified with a good set of clear coats. To smooth out rough surfaces(level sanding), you want something between P500 and P800. Be carefully not to cut through to the color, or through it to the primer entirely. Then you are going to want to wet sand using P1200 and work your way up to either P2000 or P3000. Then begin the waxing sequence. According to the company I bought this kit from, there isn't a necessity for a neck jig, or alignment for the neck if it is mounted as flush as possible. I still don't think it is a back idea verify these things though. One technique I read, you can attach one low E string and the one high E string to apply horizontal tension when the clamps are applied. The issue I see with this is you risk premature warpage. Lucky for me, the neck turned out perfect, no adjustment to the truss rod was needed. No fret dressing, or nut work was required. Although I think I am going to switch the nut out for a bone one at some point. Thanks a lot for checking out the video and asking questions. Let me know if you do go for a build it is very satisfying to make something of your own. Take it easy!

[@glennojordan]

Man that is absolutely brilliant!

[@MrLouo]

What brand of tape did you use

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, MrLouo! I can not recall the exact brand off-hand. However, I provided all materials with links in the description. Hope this helps!

[@gdsmit1]

Very cool. Thanks for this video. Must feel awesome to be able to tell someone you built the guitar you are playing.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, gdsmit1! It does! Although she is not perfect, she sounds great, and she is mine :)

[@shaire99]

Well, I admire the effort however, why would you do all that work and not wet sand and buff the finish out. Was the Orange Peel finish an homage to the Orange itself? But overall I do give it a thumbs up.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, shaire99! I did not want to go too deep into more clear coats and wet sand for two reasons: The first being, I wanted to assemble the guitar, and put tension on the neck with strings to verify that the neck was installed properly and no warping would occur. It would be silly to put another month of clear coating, wet sanding, waxing and buffing only to have the guitar require disassembly after it was put together, or worse, the neck break entirely. The second reason is I wanted to check tonality. I really like the warm sound of wood guitars(without paint), their resonance tends to project predominantly lower frequencies. The more layers of paint and clear coats you put on the guitar, the more density it has, and the higher frequencies it tends to project, and I didn't want too much of that. So the idea with these two factors in play is I was going to disassemble, and apply clear coats, wet sand, wax and buffer later on in stages, for it is always easier to add layers of clear coats, rather than take them away and risk cutting into the paint job. Thanks for the question and the feedback!

[@ziphrox]

Did you put the neck pickup in reverse on purpose or was it an accident? If you did it on purpose then why? I know Peter Green had his reversed but i don't know if it works as good on ES guitars...

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey. Elliott! Nice catch, and no, it was not done on purpose. I changed it later and annoted my mistake (and a couple others) in the description below the video. Thank you for checking out the video!

[@liondancedrummer]

Where did you guys get the body from? or did you hand make it as well as the neck.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Matt! Unfortunately, the company I bought it from has shut down since the build due to its similarities to Gibson's ES-335. I was able to find something, similar, but it is not the same one. I provided the link below. m.aliexpress.com/item/1173783885.html?trace=storeDetail2msiteDetail

[@dlanorpmactloh]

Can't a smoother longer lasting finish be achieved by using something other than rattle can finish?

[@TheLy0n5]

Ron Holtcamp yes, but you can get a damn good finish from a rattle can. It looks like this was just using a hardware store polyurethane clear for the top coat. You can buy rattle can nitrocellulose from places like guitar reranch and get amazing results. But you’re probably right about the lack of sanding.

[@DaviTrombela84]

Are the "horns" of it actually smaller than the original, like Japanese Epiphones from the 80's?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Davi T! I honestly don't know for sure. Visually compared to my Gibson and Epiphone, they seem identical.

[@DaviTrombela84]

Thanks, mate!

[@scottraycraft1885]

Great job and great video...im definitely going to do a 335 kit eventually...like the color and design too

[@blainelahart2288]

How long did it take all in all and is tuning hard to do when initially putting strings on, great video

[@JoeLewis14]

The entire build took about four to five months. I was busy with work and school at the time, so I have to fit it in when I could. Lucky for me, the truss rod didn't need any adjustment, so the tuning was not bad a all. I only recommend taking your time with this part. Your guitar as kind of "settle" so to speak. Slowly increase tension while checking the action, along with the intonation. Hope this helps :)

[@agungwayne3090]

What a beauty.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Agung!

[@exF3-86]

Tip: pull the pots through the body by threading some 1/4" heatshrink from the pot hole to f-hole, stick the shaft of the pot in the heatshrink and gracefully pull it through. Saves heaps of time and much frustration. Oh, and don't forget to ground the bridge...

[@JoeLewis14]

Nice tip! Routing pots through a semi can be quite a pain if you haven't done it before. I'm sure some peeps here will appreciate it. I did forget to show where I grounded the bridge. Good call. That can save someone from a lot of a headache. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@runrabbitrun4342]

Cute little beginner project Charley Manson.

[@philbobaggins336]

He has a venting system out of camera shot ..overspray dries in the air most part and dusts off

[@JoeLewis14]

Yes, sir! I should have been more clear on that in the video, but thank you for actually reading what I added after I posted the video. You have no idea how many comments I get on that lol.

[@leftymadrid]

God, that is EXCELLENT work there!!!!! A great inspiration to get a build kit!!!! Great stuff really!!!

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, homie! :)

[@zvonimirsarcevic7928]

hello..how did you get neck adjustment? //you just clamp it and glue it?

[@JoeLewis14]

According to the company, the alignment is checked for each specific kit before it is shipped out. So it if is flush and clamped properly, it should be okay, so no neck jig would be required. With that being said, although the action was perfect, and intonation was also perfect, if I were to do this build again, I would still check these things. One technique I read that wouldn't require a neck jin(they run about $700), you can attach one low E string and the one high E string to apply horizontal tension when the clamps are applied. The issue I see with this is you risk premature warpage.

[@zvonimirsarcevic7928]

thanks for answer. I want to build myself a guitar from kit that will have true oil, or nitrocellulose lacquer as finis.. Hate this polyurethane..

[@JoeLewis14]

Np! Thanks for checking out the video. Let me know if you do your own build. I would love to see how it turns out!

[@jarredbaca8112]

Where did you get the kit for the body from? Thanks!

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Jarred. It seems that they guitar is available again! See link below... www.diyguitars.com.au/product/gibson-es-335-semi-hollow-ath-20/

[@jjulch]

Looks cool from a few feet away. Lots of orange peel to the paint and you had beautiful body binding which you left buried. I'm knocking you a little bit, but it is a cool guitar regardless

[@elizabethdewitt1438]

The design looks like the album Reise Reise from Rammstein. Wonder if you got the inspiration from that?

[@JoeLewis14]

I had to look that one up. Nice observation! I am surprised with how similar the album and guitar look. But no, it wasn't the inspiration for the paint. I was kind of going to like a creamsicle/1950's pattern.

[@jonnybeck6723]

Very nicely done and inspiring video... Thanx for posting. Is there a heads up on your follow up yet?

[@OGAutomotive1]

Now that's a nice guitar man and Go Redwings!!

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Ian! I really appreciate the compliment! You know us Wings fans have to stick together! LGRW! Thanks again, Ian!

[@downhift2325]

Sand between coast to get rid of high spots and Orange peel

[@marcdeleon757]

Can I get the link to where you bought the kit from?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hi, Marc. Sorry, this exact kit is no longer available :/ I wish it were.

[@davelang4329]

really nice design love the orange....

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

Just a hint... use hot liquid hide glue.. its only a little harder to get set up and it dries crispy hard for a tighter tone bond than any tightbond type, that dry flexible and dead sounding. If you have to undo, stream softens hide glue. Otherwise, nice job!

[@theotherside7634]

Nice to be single, painting in the front room.:-) Very nice job, cool color too.

[@joshualoveless20]

You should have taped around the binding before painting. It would have looked that much better.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey Joshua, That is not a bad idea. I had some people mention that as well. Honestly, I was not a fan of the binding, but who knows how it would have turned out. Maybe it would have been nicer, but to each his own I suppose. Thanks for watching the video and thanks for the feedback!

[@Deliquescentinsight]

Nice one man-unusual colour choice but it turned out looking unique - I am a big fan of the '335'

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, homie! The 335 definitely has a sound of it's own, that's for sure.

[@DeFiSiYT]

Cool guitar! And I guess you got paint on everything in your apartment?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Simon! Thanks for the compliment! Also, thanks for watching the video. Lol Well, I made the mistake of not mentioning it in the video, so I have had quite a few similar comments. My job at the time did not allot me any daylight, and I wanted to press forward with the build. So, I set up two large intake fans, and two large exhaust fans located off screen. I laid down a sheet and some newspapers to catch the wet over-spray, and anything atomized was sucked out with the exhaust, or it dried and settled as dust. It was nothing that a dusting or a vacuuming didn't take care of. So, to answer your questions, I just had a small layer of dust. I should have made it clearer that yes, ideally you paint outdoors, but if you do something similar, just have a good intake and exhaust system set up, and be aware of those consequences. Thanks again, Simon!

[@kellphil76]

Beautiful guitar man, that color really pops! I enjoyed watching this build video. Ever thought about building your own tube amp from a kit?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, kellphil76! Thanks for the kind words! That is a great idea for a video! I may do one down the road. I will definitely give you a shout out if I do!

[@jacobstout9769]

Isn't the neck pickup installed upside down?

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Jacob! Yes, you are correct. The neck pickup mount was unintentionally installed upside down. I fixed it later. I annotated where I made this mistake, but annotations do not show up on certain platforms such as phones, or tablets. I also noted that more clear coat layers, followed by more wet sanding would lead to a better finish. Those were the two issues I would change if I could re-shoot the build. Keen eye though! Thanks for checking out the video!

[@francisho1454]

ES-355` love your work -ineed a Newcastle-Brown.`

[@JoeLewis14]

Loves me some New Castle ;)

[@davecarpenter7266]

Very nice. Love the design.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Dave!

[@mrmusic248]

And what IS the retail price of a factory ES-335, made in the U.S.A. ? Thousands more than what you paid for the kit, I'm sure. Now all you need, if you don't have them already, are a great case, and an even greater amp through which to crank it up .

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, mrmusic! That would be a great idea for another 'How To'. I've seen some videos of pretty decent made DIY guitar cases. You are correct! The guitar sound I was going for easily runs a few thousand dollars. Thanks a lot for checking out the video!

[@jrichmang]

first, ignore the lamo nay-sayers. There is nothing wrong with building a kit, and your colour choice is your own so fek off to those who dont like it. I am not a fan of orange but its not my guitar - you however have done an excellent job of painting and finishing a ES guitar. My only negative comment is that the neck pickup is backwards, but you already got that. One question: Where did the bindings go? A quick razor blade to the edge will make em re-appear (but it should be done before the clear goes on). For reference, I did an ES175 Kit and I love it!

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, John! Sweet ES175 build. It looks fantastic! Keen eye on the neck pickup; one of the things I would have done differently on this build. As for the bindings, I wasn't really feeling it for this build. I intentionally painted over them because they didn't seem to really fit the theme I was going for. Great work on your guitar, and thanks for checking out the video!

[@kevykev38]

Who was playing guitar on the tracks are they a beginner?

[@arakenny]

I love this great video. Mr. Question is what are the paints you used. The names sir.

[@MichaelBrown-ff3go]

Every comment talking about spray paint in the living room has never partied in Iowa lol if someone could possible enlighten me tho? Wouldnt you want a decent jig setup to set that neck properly in line w the bridge etc? I could see winging it with a bolt on...there's gotta be something to that I don't understand...

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Michael Brown! Lol! I haven't been to Iowa, but it sounds awesome :P I made the mistake of not clarifying that I had intake and exhaust fans located off screen. Ideally, I could use a neck jig, but I didn't have one, and I wanted to try my best with what I had. Luckily, it turned out just fine. My big mistake wast the finish. I may entirely redo this build down the road, but who knows. Thanks for the comment!

[@scottraycraft1885]

Absolutely gorgeous...great job.

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Scott :)

[@kadenisgr8]

Where did you purchase this kit? Fantastic job, btw.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Stryofoam! Thanks for the kind words! Unfortunately, the company I bought this kit from was forced to shut down due to its similarities with Gibson, but you can find something similar if your search 'DIY ES-335 kit' on Google. Just be sure to check reviews, and look at the pictures. The neck is often noticeably different.

[@jonmedley3160]

Word for the wise. the bridge nick pickup needs to be spun 180. The Screws on the pick up for the bridge go closet to the tail bridge and the neck goes towards the neck hence their names.

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Jon! You are correct. This mistake had been noted in the description, annotations, and I pinned it in the comment section. Thanks for the feedback, though.

[@timhallas4275]

Mask with pin-striping tape, instead of masking tape next time, you get very clean edges.. also put on thin coats of color paint letting them dry between. Then unmask, wet-sand with 600 grit lightly then apply two coats of clear polyurethane. That can be wet-sanded and buffed, or use a mat finish for a more aged look. I love the color and the striping. Very hot-rod looking. Never unmask before paint is thoroughly dry.

[@jeffreyowens1718]

Hi were did you buy that guitar kit and how much

[@nomechompsky]

Jeffrey Owens you could probably find it at the fretwire.com

[@jeanmichelbraux6341]

Good job. Except the orange skin after painting... need polish . Thank you To share, you give ideas. Hello from 🇫🇷

[@larryingram6481]

I thought the video was interesting, I would like to try it sometime, and I do agree with the idea of getting and playing a do it yourself guitar, mainly because I have a 1972 Stratocaster and a 1962 Gibson SG special and I swore that I would never take them out of my house again after almost having them stolen at a gig where playing a DIY guitar and getting that stolen would be bad but not as bad as having the real thing stolen where on the real thing I would have to take out an insurance policy every time I took it out of the house I love this idea

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Larry! I appreciate you checking out the video. I'm sorry to hear you almost had your gear stolen. For me, it's not even just the money, it's the sentiment. The time you spent in that guitar, playing it, learning each one's unique quirks. I think a lot of people who are bashing DIY guitars probably have never played one. They sound quite good if you make some slight hardware changes and upgrades. Let me know if you decide to go with a build. I would love to see it.

[@MURT006]

Beautiful job man, so cool

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Murray!

[@maxmeszaros9527]

that is a beautiful guitar. I may never see such beauty again I subbed

[@JoeLewis14]

I appreciate the kind words, Max. Very cool of you. And thank you for subbing as well :)

[@maxmeszaros9527]

its such a beautiful guitar. out of interest did you build the body and neck or was it a kit? if it was where did you get it?

[@JoeLewis14]

I ordered the neck and body from a company in Australia. Unfortunately the company shut down, but I did find something similar although the headstock is a bit different. m.aliexpress.com/item/1173783885.html?trace=storeDetail2msiteDetail

[@maxmeszaros9527]

thank you, i appreciate your help. :D

[@BigSteveBlackpool]

Good job but there s still some orange peel showing on the body needs better sanding and buffing with some compound

[@loujoszai1219]

Good job! Thanks for recording it :)

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks, Lou!

[@collink7145]

It'd be nice if you, ya know...liked where you got the kit from...lol

[@JoeLewis14]

Hey, Colin! Unfortunately, they stopped making these kits a while back. The company actually got a cease and desist from Gibson due to their similarities. i tried to find something similar for you online, the it is very difficult, for the head-stock seems noticeable different in just about every one I found. However, this one seems like the closest I could find to mine (link below). I cannot vouch for wood quality, but it looks awfully close to the kit I got for this build. If you come ac cross a quality ES-335 kit please let me know, for I'm sure a lot of the viewers of this video would be interested in. Thanks for watching the video and your inquiry. www.stewmac.com/Materials_and_Supplies/Instrument_Kits/Guitar_Kits/335-Style_Electric_Guitar_Kit.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwwtTmBRBqEiwA-b6c_45vTUlKYn0U4ec66gIHOFRbx_ESK69SDwsfNnIVoF4jXtYjDsxQehoCvVAQAvD_BwE

[@618recordingco.5]

Joe, super inspired by your video, I have watched it a bunch. I am working on a Trini Lopez project using ReRanch and Behlen finishes, high quality hardware, and a bunch of high end types of electronics (Seymour Duncan Seth Lover pickups and 920d 50's wiring harness). I am also trying to put in an access panel like a Lucille in case I want to do a pickup swap later. Anyway if I get that done I will link your video, thanks for doing this project!

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks a lot of checking out the video! Trini Lopez eh? That is going to be beautiful. Surprisingly enough, I have yet to try ReRanch or Behlen finishes, but I have heard great things. I recently fell in love with Stewart MacDonald's lacquer. I used it on my most recent build(I am currently editing the video right now and it should be up within the next month or so). I will have to try the other ones as well some time. I think putting an access panel in is a great idea, it would make life a lot easier down the road. Oh, the legendary Lucille :). Let me know when it is finished, I would love to check it out!

[@richardgallo3155]

Event Horizon Records

[@TomGoldsmithguitar]

Loving it so much right now!!

[@MNGuitars]

unbelievably gorgeous lol, I'm lusting over a 335 and orange is my favorite color, this is so sick for me! some questions, what kind of paint and where did u get a blank body and neck? amazing job!!!

[@JoeLewis14]

Thanks a lot Mike! I used white paint/primer as the base(this is very important since regular paint will no adhere to wood well without it), followed by pumpkin orange spray paint. The most important part would be the the clear coat/lacquer. Since this build, I tried a new lacquer from Stewart Macdonald(link below) and it worked much better. I am working on a new video where I used this and it turned out much better and smoother. I used a small amount for this 335 build, but I suggest using much more than I did, followed by a wet sand. The finish will be even nicer. www.stewmac.com/Materials_and_Supplies/Finishing_Supplies/Finishes_and_Solvents/ColorTone_Aerosol_Guitar_Lacquer.html?gclid=CK67zpyPitQCFdC4wAodcggIeg I got the neck and body from a company in Australia that shut down, but I posted one similar I have come across(posted below). If you are looking for one, keep an eye on the headstock, some look nothing like the ES-335, fortunately, this one does. www.pitbullguitars.com/shop/guitars/pit-bull-guitars-es-1g-electric-guitar-kit/ Let me know if you decide to build! I'd love to see it!

[@seckineroglu9874]

Hey Does this website ships internationally ?

[@scaira60]

Where did you get that 335 kit?? Thanks