When it comes to using non-traditional ukulele woods, I always have a plan. I just have to know the basic roles of all the different parts of the instrument, then I can substitute with woods I have on hand that will perform similarly. Top? Soft but stiff. Back and sides? Hard and stiff. Neck? Medium density but not too heavy. Fretboard? Dense and durable. In this case, oak for the back and sides and cherry for the neck are not traditional, but they look great, sound great, are easy to get and relatively sustainable compared to tropical wood. I’m really pleased with it and can’t wait to make more like it!

The Bearclaw spruce top is old growth salvaged in Alaska. The oak and cherry are from The Carpenter Ant stash in Portland. The pistachio is from California orchards. The bird’s foot purfling is made by Gurian in Seattle.

“What a beautiful ukulele! Impressed by your work!
So nice to play, looking forward to get to know it!
All the best!
- F. T. ”