Build a fiddle with a character and voice all its own, with this step-by-step guide to practical fiddle making

Folk Fiddle – Making, Crafting and Decorating is a richly illustrated guide for makers who want to step beyond classical violin conventions and create instruments that celebrate the artistry, storytelling and freedom of folk music. Drawing on years of hands-on experience, luthier Emma Hardy takes you through each stage of the process, from choosing timber and designing body shapes to carving scrolls, decoration, crafting and applying distinctive varnishes. With detailed photographs, clear step-by-step instructions and insights grounded in real projects, this book shows you not just how to build a fiddle, but why each choice matters.



In summary, the book is a compact, well written survey of many possibilities for going beyond the Cremona standard. It is an interesting and worthwhile read. Even for conservative luthiers (look over the fence, guys!).