Gibson TV | 3 weeks ago

Watch this clip from Season 2, Episode 11 of “The Process” for a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship that goes into creating our iconic bridges.

Your next dream acoustic guitar is waiting for you at Gibson.com

Watch as we show you how bridges are applied to your Gibson acoustic guitar when working with nitrocellulose lacquer. Discover why wood won’t glue to lacquer and hold its structural integrity for long-term playability and how our luthiers scrape sections of the finish away by hand to combat this. See how the luthiers at Gibson acoustic select the correct bridge model and wood grain to match the fingerboard, use tools and jigs to determine the precise bridge placement, pin the bridge with two small holes under the saddle slot, and score around the bridge’s footprint using an X-Acto blade. Learn how they soften the lacquer with a heat lamp and carefully peel it away under the bridge’s exact footprint.

Over the years, we’ve crafted some of the most distinctive acoustic bridge designs—like the legendary SJ-200™ moustache™ bridge and the beautiful bridge of the Gibson Dove™, with its inlaid doves. Each bridge is a work of art, playing an essential role in both the look and sound that make Gibson acoustic instruments truly special.

Gibson TV’s award-winning docuseries, “The Process,” is returning for a second season! This time, we’re taking you behind the scenes for an in-depth look at the physical process of making our acoustic guitars. “The Process” explores our newly expanded acoustic factory in Bozeman, MT, featuring interviews with the talented craftspeople who handmake these beloved guitars and deep dives into the art of guitar making.  

In this episode, you’ll learn all about the intricate design and construction of Gibson acoustic guitar bridges, an integral part of every Gibson acoustic. Discover how each bridge is installed by hand, with meticulous attention to detail. From matching the wood species of the bridge to the guitar body to carving the ornate inlays for models like the Gibson SJ-200 and Gibson Dove, every step highlights the artistry behind these iconic instruments and the dedication of each team member to ensure your guitar sounds as beautiful as it looks.

The process doesn’t stop at visual aesthetics. You’ll get an exclusive look at how bridges are engineered for optimal functionality, ensuring that they play a pivotal role in delivering the legendary Gibson sound. The nitrocellulose lacquer is carefully peeled from the surface before installation to ensure every bridge is sturdy and stands the test of time. This crucial step ensures a direct wood-to-wood bond, maximizing durability and creating a solid foundation that enhances the guitar’s tonal response and longevity. In addition, we invite you to meet the craftspeople who combine traditional techniques with modern innovations.

Whether it’s the artistry, craftsmanship, or technical precision, every element of Gibson acoustic bridges reflects the dedication and passion that goes into every guitar.
         
         
For more information about employment opportunities and joining the Gibson team, visit https://www.gibson.com/en-US/Careers          

ABOUT GIBSON BRANDS
Gibson, the leading iconic guitar brand, has shaped the sounds of generations of musicians and music lovers across genres for 127 years. Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Nashville, Gibson Brands has a legacy of world-class craftsmanship, legendary music partnerships, and progressive product evolution that is unrivaled among musical instrument companies. The Gibson Brands portfolio includes Gibson, the leading guitar brand, as well as many of the most beloved and recognizable music brands, including https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialEpiphone, which has been on every stage since 1873, Kramer, the original MADE TO ROCK HARD guitar brand, MESA/Boogie, the home of tone, and KRK, behind great music for over 30 years, and Maestro, the founder of effect pedals. Gibson Brands is dedicated to quality, innovation, and sound excellence so that music lovers for generations to come will continue to experience music shaped by Gibson Brands.