You Need to Play These Wonderful Instruments

It's been said that it's impossible to play a cigar box guitar without having a smile upon one's face.

I'd have to agree.

There is something so effortlessly joyous about these incredible instruments. Also, these bad boys are timeless and at Musicmaker we are always happy to have some fun and funky instruments in the shop, especially those designed by Lace Musical Instruments.

So let's get a little history into us (always important) and then let's check out some sweet guitars (possibly more important).

The History

The roots of cigar box guitars delve deep into the annals of American history, tracing their origins to the mid-19th century. Born out of necessity and resourcefulness, these humble instruments emerged during an era when financial constraints prompted individuals to seek creative ways to make music. As the story goes, impoverished musicians, particularly in the Southern United States, repurposed discarded cigar boxes, reclaimed wood, and household items to fashion makeshift guitars.

These early cigar box guitars were often primitive, featuring a resonator box made from a wooden cigar box, a neck crafted from scrap wood, and strings repurposed from broom wire. Despite their rudimentary construction, these instruments produced a unique, raw sound that resonated with the blues and folk musicians of the time. The simplicity of the design allowed for easy construction and customsation, making it accessible to individuals who couldn't afford conventional instruments.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the popularity of cigar box guitars soared, reaching its zenith during the Great Depression. The economic hardships of the era spurred a resurgence in homemade instruments, with artisans and musicians alike contributing to the evolution of these unique guitars. Cigar box guitars became emblematic of the DIY spirit, embodying the tenacity and resilience of communities navigating challenging times.

Fast forward to the present day, and the allure of cigar box guitars endures. Modern luthiers and instrument manufacturers, such as Lace Instruments, have embraced this historical legacy, infusing new life into the age-old tradition. By combining craftsmanship with contemporary innovations, Lace Instruments pays homage to the roots of cigar box guitars while offering musicians instruments that resonate with both tradition and modernity.

Lace Instruments Cigar Box Guitars

And here we are, sitting in the present day and cigar box guitars continue to captivate musicians and enthusiasts alike. As we mentioned, one company has brought a modern twist to this historical craft and that here, is Lace Instruments. Lace Cigar Box Guitars, in particular, stand out for their quality craftsmanship and unique designs, combining the vintage charm of cigar box guitars with the innovation of Lace Instruments.

Lace Cigar Box Electric Guitar - 3 String - Big Wolf

The Lace Cigar Box Electric Guitar - 3 String - Big Wolf pays homage to the roots of blues and folk music. With its three-string configuration, this instrument delivers a raw and authentic sound that resonates with the soulful tones of traditional blues. The Big Wolf features Lace Alumitone pickups, known for their clarity and responsiveness, ensuring that every note played on this cigar box guitar is rich and vibrant.

Lace Cigar Box Electric Guitar - 4 String - Grizzly Bear

For those seeking a broader sonic palette, the Lace Cigar Box Electric Guitar - 4 String - Grizzly Bear offers a versatile playing experience. The four-string setup widens the range of tones, making it suitable for various genres. The Grizzly Bear boasts Lace Sensor pickups, providing a powerful and well-defined sound. Whether you're strumming chords or picking out melodies, this cigar box guitar offers a dynamic and expressive performance.

Or, in other words

Now, here's the real kicker: the Matchbook™ pickup, a standard feature on all them 3 and 4 string models, is a genuine USA creation, the first-ever patented pickup made especially for the Cigar Box Guitar, using Lace’s™ Alumitone® "Current Driven" design. It's shaped like a real matchbook, with one magnet playin' the part of the "striker." This ingenious pickup, with its zero noise-floor, double coil power, and single coil clarity, lets you dial in tones from mean to clean, controlled by a push-pull volume pot.

Built tough from pressboard and mahogany veneer, coated in a satin gloss finish with chromed metal corners, these lightweight wonders are crafted to go the distance. The one-piece hard rock maple neck, the double adjustable truss rod, and the 20-fret maple fingerboard make for playin' that's downright exceptional.

The bridge, sportin' a steel plate design with a good 20mm of tweakin' room, guarantees that each string's singin' just right. The open gear machine heads, remindin' you of the good ol' vintage instruments, come with a 14:1 gear ratio. Add a precision-cut bone nut, and you got yourself tunin' that stays true, intonation that's spot-on, and sustain and harmonics that'll make your heart sing.

Old stuff meets new stuff and results in truly excellent stuff.

It is written.

Drop in to us at Musicmaker and have a go yourself! That's one of the many, many reasons we are here!

Or we can post you one, free of charge. The postage that is. Not the, you know......

Anyway! We love you.

Join us.

Until next time.