The art of crafting musical instruments from cigar boxes has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. These handcrafted instruments, known as cigar box guitars, have been played by music enthusiasts and professional musicians alike, offering a unique sound and aesthetic that stands out in any collection. Whether you’re a musician looking for a new sound, a craft enthusiast interested in unique projects, or a cigar aficionado with a passion for music, a cigar box guitar could be the perfect addition to your collection.
1. Hal Leonard Hinkler 3-String Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit (EBB)
This kit by Hal Leonard includes all you need to build a 3-string electric blues box slide guitar. Ideal for beginners and DIY enthusiasts, it comes with easy-to-follow instructions, making the process of creating your own guitar enjoyable and straightforward.
- DIY kit
- 3-string electric
- Easy-to-follow instructions
2. James Neligan Series 4 String Acoustic Guitar
This 4-string acoustic guitar from the James Neligan series features a cask-coal body, producing a powerful and rich sound. Designed for right-handed players, it offers a unique aesthetic and quality craftsmanship.
- 4-string acoustic
- Right-handed
- Cask Coal body.
3. Stewmac Cigar Box Guitar Kit
StewMac offers a DIY kit to build a traditional cigar box guitar. The kit includes all the necessary components and detailed instructions. It provides an opportunity to not only create your own instrument but also to learn about the historical significance of cigar box guitars.
- DIY Kit
- Traditional Design
- Detailed Instructions
4. Hinkler 3 String Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit
Another excellent kit from Hinkler, this 3-string electric guitar kit is designed specifically for playing the blues. The kit includes everything needed to build the guitar, and the resulting instrument is perfect for slide playing and achieving that classic blues sound.
- 3-string electric
- Blues-focused
- Slide play
5. C. B. Gitty 6 String Cigar Box Guitar Kit
This kit from C. B. Gitty allows you to build a 6-string cigar box guitar, providing a broader range of musical possibilities. The kit includes all necessary components and instructions, making it accessible for beginners and experienced DIYers alike.
- DIY kit
- 6-string
- Broad musical range
6. Snowden Guitars 3-String Cigar Box Guitar Handcrafted by Snowden Guitars
This 3-string cigar box guitar features a unique design and high-quality craftsmanship. The guitar is perfect for both slide and fretted playing, offering versatility for different musical styles.
- Handcrafted
- 3-string, slide
- Fretted play
7. Daddy Mojo Cigar Box Guitars
Daddy Mojo specializes in creating handcrafted cigar box guitars, each with its own unique design and aesthetic. These guitars are known for their excellent sound quality, playability, and distinctive appearance.
- Handcrafted
- Unique designs
- Excellent sound quality
8. Electric Cigar Box Guitar Tiki Traveler Edition: Don The Beachcomber by Doug Horne
This electric cigar box guitar, designed by Doug Horne, features a unique Tiki Traveler edition design inspired by Don the Beachcomber. The guitar offers a distinct aesthetic and sound, making it a standout choice for any musician.
- Electric
- Tiki Traveler edition
- Designed by Doug Horne
9. Sunkist Orange Crate Cigar Box Guitar
This unique guitar features a Sunkist Orange Crate as its body, offering a distinct and nostalgic aesthetic. The guitar is handcrafted and produces a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for various musical styles.
- Handcrafted
- Sunkist Orange Crate body
- Warm and resonant sound.
10. Avocet Cigar Box Guitar
Handcrafted by Avocet, this cigar box guitar features high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The guitar offers a rich, full sound and a unique aesthetic, making it a great addition to any musician’s collection.
- Handcrafted
- High-quality materials
- Rich and full sound
What to Consider When Choosing Crafted Cigar Box Guitar
- Sound Quality: The most important aspect of any musical instrument is its sound quality. Look for a cigar box guitar with a rich, resonant tone that matches the style of music you play.
- Craftsmanship: The quality of craftsmanship will affect both the sound and the durability of the guitar. Look for well-constructed instruments with quality materials and attention to detail.
- Playability: A well-crafted cigar box guitar should be easy to play, with a comfortable neck and well-placed frets.
- Aesthetics: The unique aesthetic of a cigar box guitar is part of its appeal. Look for an instrument with a design that resonates with you, whether it’s a vintage look or a more modern design.
- Price: As with any musical instrument, you’ll need to consider your budget. There are cigar box guitars available at various price points, so find one that offers the best value for your money.
Final Thoughts
Cigar box guitars are not only a piece of musical history but also a unique instrument that brings a distinct sound and aesthetic to any collection. Whether you are a professional musician, a DIY enthusiast, or a cigar aficionado, there is a cigar box guitar that is perfect for you. Consider the sound quality, craftsmanship, playability, aesthetics, and price to find the perfect cigar box guitar for your needs.
