The Artisan Series represents John’s original acoustic designs — instruments shaped by a deep respect for tradition and guided by a modern, physics‑driven approach to tone. Each guitar begins with a carefully selected Sitka spruce top that is dynamically tested using sine‑wave excitation to reveal stiffness along and across the grain. By mapping nodal patterns, measuring density, and calculating modulus of elasticity, John determines the ideal top and back thickness for each body size. This data feeds into his custom “thickness predictor,” allowing him to voice each plate with precision before a single brace is glued.

The tops feature John’s double X‑brace system, a structure that blends the reliability of traditional X‑bracing with enhanced stiffness distribution and improved control over the monopole and cross‑dipole modes. The backs use a radial bracing pattern inspired by the research of Trevor Gore — adapted and refined to create an active back that contributes meaningfully to projection, sustain, and tonal complexity. A composite honeycomb bridge patch made from maple provides exceptional strength‑to‑weight performance and efficient energy transfer.

Necks are built from solid or laminated mahogany with accents of maple, rosewood, or ebony, and are reinforced with John’s custom‑made titanium truss rod — lightweight, rigid, and exceptionally stable. Truss‑rod access is located at the headstock through John’s Stealth access system, supported by a diamond volute and a rear headstock veneer, a design encouraged by James Olson and executed with John’s own aesthetic touches. The headstock itself features John’s SSP (Straight String Pull) layout for improved tuning stability, paired with a fully compensated bone nut and saddle informed by the work of Trevor Gore and the Guild of American Luthiers. The saddle is set at a 7‑degree back angle, creating a self‑compensating geometry that maintains intonation even when action adjustments are made.

Standard features include an ebony fingerboard and bridge, Gotoh 510 tuning machines, hardwood bindings and purflings on the top, back, and sides, a back stripe, a traditional rosette, and a wood‑bound headstock with matching rear veneer. John uses unslotted bridge pins — each individually numbered — to maintain consistency and ensure perfect fit.

Available in five original body shapes — the 14″ Grand Parlor, 15″ Fingerstyle, 16″ Small Jumbo, 16″ Slope Dread, and 16‑5/8″ Jumbo — the Artisan Series blends the best of acoustic tradition with modern structural insight. These guitars are designed to be responsive, balanced, and expressive, with lines and curves that carry a unified aesthetic throughout the instrument. The Artisan Series is the culmination of John’s philosophy: don’t reinvent the wheel, but refine it with intention, curiosity, and craftsmanship.