How Do You Order a Martin Custom Shop Guitar?
A Martin Custom Shop guitar is ordered through an Authorized Martin Dealer, not directly from the factory. The dealer works with you to define specifications, submits the order to Martin’s Custom Shop in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and manages the process through completion.
This guide explains exactly how to order a Martin Custom Shop guitar, what decisions matter most, and how to avoid common mistakes.
This guide is part of our complete resource on Martin Custom Shop guitars.
Step-by-Step: How to Order a Martin Custom Shop Guitar
1) Work With an Authorized Martin Custom Shop Dealer
Martin Custom Shop guitars must be ordered through an Authorized Martin Dealer. Authorized dealers serve as the direct liaison between the customer and Martin’s Custom Shop. Your dealer ensures that:
- Specifications comply with Martin Custom Shop guidelines
- Your order is submitted accurately
- Communication with Martin is handled correctly
Learn more about working with an Authorized Martin Custom Shop dealer.
2) Choose the Body Size & Model Platform
The body size and platform form the foundation of your guitar’s sound and feel.
Common Custom Shop body options include:
- Dreadnought
- OM
- 000 and 00
- Jumbo and slope-shoulder designs
Your dealer will help match body size to your playing style, volume needs, and comfort preferences.
3) Select Tonewoods
Tonewoods shape the character of your guitar.
Key decisions include:
- Top wood (such as Adirondack or Sitka spruce)
- Back and side wood (mahogany, rosewood, koa, and others)
Each combination affects responsiveness, headroom, and tonal balance.
4) Choose Bracing & Construction Details
Bracing and construction choices influence how the guitar responds under your hands. Options may include:
- Scalloped or non-scalloped bracing
- Forward-shifted bracing
- Adirondack bracing
- Traditional construction features
5) Dial in Neck Shape, Nut Width & Playability
Playability is one of the biggest advantages of the Custom Shop. You can specify:
- Neck profile
- Nut width (such as 1 11/16" or 1 3/4")
- Scale length
- String spacing
These choices affect comfort, reach, and overall feel.
6) Finalize Aesthetic Details
Once the core specs are set, you’ll finalize cosmetic elements such as:
- Finish type
- Binding and purfling
- Inlays
- Pickguard and headstock details
Cosmetic choices do not affect tone, but they do influence pricing and build complexity.
7) Dealer Submission & Martin Approval
Your dealer submits the completed specification sheet to Martin’s Custom Shop. Martin reviews the order to:
- Confirm feasibility
- Approve materials and construction
- Assign the build to the Custom Shop schedule
Once approved, the build officially enters production.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Martin Custom Shop Guitar?
After approval, most Martin Custom Shop guitars take approximately 5 to 9 months to complete.
For a detailed breakdown, see our guide to Martin Custom Shop lead times.
Can You Order a Martin Custom Shop Guitar Without Waiting?
In some cases, players can avoid a full Custom Shop build timeline by reserving a guitar that is already in production.
GuitarHotline has a selection of Custom Shop guitars already in production. These guitars:
- Are fully approved by Martin
- May have shorter remaining build times
- Can sometimes be reserved before arrival
Learn more about our Martin Custom Shop guitars already on order.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering a Martin Custom Shop Guitar
- Over-specifying cosmetic options at the expense of tone
- Choosing woods without considering playing style
- Ignoring neck dimensions and comfort
- Working without dealer guidance
A knowledgeable dealer helps prevent these issues before the order is submitted.
Start Your Martin Custom Shop Order with GuitarHotline
If you’re ready to order—or just want to explore options—we’re happy to help.
We’ll walk through specifications, discuss timelines, and let you know if a guitar already on order might be a good fit.
Learn more about working with an Authorized Martin Custom Shop Dealer.
For a full overview of options, pricing, and availability, visit our Martin Custom Shop guitars page.
Serving Musicians Since 1991