handbuilt guitars UK

About the craftsman

I set up Duncan Cruttenden Guitars in 2020, establishing a dedicated custom guitar shop focused on craftsmanship, individuality and tone. My training includes completing the Acoustic and Electric Journeyman Programs at the renowned Galloup School of Guitar Building and Repair in Big Rapids, Michigan, USA – one of the most respected institutions for aspiring luthiers worldwide.

While the pandemic initially slowed progress, it became an invaluable period for designing and refining what would become my signature line of handbuilt guitars – the Pavilion Parlor range. These electric instruments are inspired by the compact and expressive Parlor acoustic body shape, and form the core of my custom shop offering.

To further develop my skills, I also completed advanced training at the Totnes School of Guitar Making in Devon, UK – a respected name in the British luthier community. I continue to carry out guitar commissions, prototype new models and offer professional guitar servicing from my workshop, working closely with players across the UK to build or maintain truly personal instruments.

As a handbuilt guitars UK maker, my approach combines traditional luthiery with personal service – offering players the chance to own an instrument built with care, attention to detail and a clear understanding of what makes a guitar sing.

I now build 4 Pavilion Parlor models;

The Royale (a carve-top, set-neck, semi-hollow electric guitar)

The Original Parlor (a flat-top, set-neck, semi-hollow electric guitar)

The Thinline (a flat-top, bolt-on neck, hybrid electric guitar)

The Model-T (a solid-body, bolt-on electric guitar).

Recently, I have launched The Sovereign Bass (a solid-body, bolt-on bass guitar).

In 2026 I will be launching The Pavilion Arch (an arch top, set-neck, electro-acoustic guitar) and The Pavilion Classic (an electro-acoustic guitar).

In addition, I offer guitar set-up and repair services and set-up and fret-dressing courses in my studio in Bexhill, East Sussex, UK.

“You do not know how pleased I am with it. The whole package is professional and impressive. Once again… thank you for allowing me to own this work of art!”

“I can honestly say that a guitar has never felt as right as this one. Its beautiful, comfortable, the controls are positive and definite.”

Partnership: De La Warr Pavilion

The De La Warr Pavilion develops meaningful new partnerships and collaborations with businesses who share our values. We are proud to partner with Duncan Cruttenden Guitars.

Duncan is a Business Patron of the Pavilion. He generously helps us to conserve our iconic building and deliver our dynamic artistic programme, which delivers sustainable social impacts and positive change for people across the region.

Every customer who commissions a Pavillion Parlor guitar gets a membership for the De La Warr Pavilion. By playing these instruments, you are helping our vibrant venue and communities to thrive long into the future.

If you want to do more to support the Pavilion, you too can join us as a Member or Patron.