Your guitar isn't just an instrument... it's your escape hatch. Whether you're rocking a budget import or a vintage relic, my job is simple: make it play better than ever before.
I specialize in effortless action, smooth frets, crisp electronics, and well executed repairs. I'm relentless about getting the very best out of every single guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, strum stick, or whatever you play.
Lakeside Guitar is your dedicated stringed instrument repair & custom shop. I do not have retail sales, nor do I sell custom guitars.
While you wait! An action adjustment, fretboard cleanup, and fresh set of strings on your axe.
Get that "brand new" feeling again from your favorite guitar or bass. Satisfaction guaranteed.
I work on pickups, knobs, switches, output jacks, etc. including mods and acoustic guitar electronics.
Frets can make or break your setup. I can address pits, uneven areas, rust/tarnish and more.
Stuff happens. No judgement. That's my actual guitar in the picture. No, for real. I'll show ya...
Some small issues can be handled while you wait, usually 20-30 minutes.
Most jobs (like setups and small repairs) are in the "fast track" which is 2-3 weeks.
Complicated projects are handled in order of arrival – plan for 30-60 days in most cases.
I'm located in Colchester, Vermont – specifically Mallets Bay, just above the New North End of Burlington.
My customers come from all over Northwestern Vermont including Burlington, South Burlington, Williston, Colchester, Essex, Essex Junction, Winooski, Milton, Georgia, St. Albans, Shelburne, Charlotte, Vergennes, Hinesburg, Waterbury, Stowe, Grand Isle, North Hero, South Hero and all the towns in between.
Apparently, due to a lack of options, I also get customer coming from Plattsburgh, New York and other North Country locations. Some customers schedule service ahead for same day turnaound to avoid repeat ferry rides.
Yes, it's my pleasure to offer a free estimate for your job.
I will need to see the instrument in person at my shop. I will inspect your guitar carefully. I often take measurements. I'll share my diagnosis and the estimate for labor and parts, plus any options. I am always happy to spend extra time answering questions and explaining stuff.
Note: If you are looking for a professional "second opinion" or some kind of insurance valuation or other similar kind of consultation work, that will bill at my usual $60/hour labor rate.
You are welcome to send pictures via email. It will help me gauge if the repair is doable, and give you a ballpark estimate. I do need to see it in person to give you more accurate diagnosis and price. Feel free to schedule a time!
My labor rate is $60/hour, and it includes consumables like sandpaper, glue, etc.
Check out my Pricing page for more details.
The bulk of my work is acoustic guitars, electric guitars and bass guitars.
I have also repaired mandolins, banjos, ukeleles, fiddles... even a strum stick. If it's a stringed instrument, I'm probably able to help you.
I have spent many bench hours working on the major brands – Alvarez, ESP/LTD, Fender/Squire, Gretsch, Gibson/Epiphone, Ibanez, Martin, Paul Reed Smith (PRS), Takamine, Taylor, Yamaha... I probably missed a few. I have also worked on many rare or lesser-known brands like Framus, Maton, Laravie, Greco, Sire, Tiesco and many more.
Yes, I have been through both the Martin and Taylor warranty programs. I have access to their resources, parts, and can perform warranty work. I can also work with them to secure warranty approval for you. I have some access to Fender through my partnership with Music & Arts, but hoping to get independent certification soon.