I’m not sure I believe in coincidences, but I do think things rhyme once in a while. In this case, #600 turned out to be almost the same specs as #500. When Anne picked out her specs, she didn’t know what her number would be and I don’t think about it until I start the instrument and assign the next number in the database. This combo of redwood and walnut is always a winner, it sounds like dark chocolate with a citrus edge. The curly walnut back and sides is from guitar maker Ben Bonham, cut on the Washington side of the Columbia River. The redwood is from guitar maker Jayson Bowerman from Bend, OR. Both of these generous makers save me ukulele size pieces from their guitar builds. The fretboard, headplate and bridge is from California Orchards. The salvaged fir neck is from a Portland floor joist.

“Wow! My new ukulele is so perfect, it brought tears to my eyes. It looks and sounds so beautiful and is a joy to play. The finish is so smooth and I love how all the parts compliment each other. A work of art. And Nicole, the inscription inside is exquisite, thank you so much.
I think it’s cool how the numbers worked out too. I’m happy to think of #500 in the UK. My mother lived in London for many years and it’s one of my favorite places.
Thanks again for the work you do and the music and the beautiful instruments you make.
- A. F. ”