Intermediate-Advanced Inlay Camp for String Instruments (Oct 9 – 11, 2025)

$895.00

This 3-day camp will dive deeper into the craft of inlay, specifically related to the fine art of building string instruments. This class can be taken as a precursor to an assembly class for a seamless experience. Create your unique inlay design and bring it to life in one of our instrument assembly classes.

A Deep Dive into the Art of Inlay for Lutherie

Our Intermediate to Advanced Inlay Camp is a 3-day course designed as a comprehensive follow-up to the introductory inlay camp, providing participants with a more detailed and nuanced exploration of the art of inlay. This camp focuses specifically on the craft as it pertains to Lutherie, the fine art of building string instruments.

  • Tip: While attendance is not a prerequisite for the instrument build and assembly camps, students who choose to participate in this camp will have the opportunity to design components that can be utilized in the instrument assembly camp, thus enhancing their overall learning experience.

Advanced Inlay Techniques and Tools

This camp will introduce participants to more advanced tools and materials essential for inlay work. From electric and pneumatic tools to specialized glues and dust extraction systems, students will gain hands-on experience with equipment that elevates the precision and quality of their inlay projects. The curriculum will cover a variety of sophisticated techniques, ensuring that each participant leaves with a deeper understanding of the craft.

Shop Setup and Safety for Inlay

An integral part of mastering inlay work is understanding the optimal setup for a shop. Participants will learn about the best practices for organizing their workspace, including dust extraction systems to maintain a clean and safe environment. Discussions will also cover the various types of glues suitable for inlay work and how to choose the right tools for specific tasks.

Perfecting the Inlay

One of the most critical aspects of inlay work is making the “gap” disappear. This camp will dedicate significant time to teaching techniques that ensure a seamless, professional finish. Participants will learn how to achieve precise cuts and fits, minimizing the visibility of any gaps between inlay materials and the substrate.

Vision Enhancement Tools

For those who require readers or magnification loupes for up-close vision enhancement, it is recommended to bring these tools along. Proper vision aids are crucial for detailed inlay work, allowing for greater accuracy and reducing strain during intricate tasks.

Hands-On Learning

The Intermediate to Advanced Inlay Camp emphasizes practical, hands-on learning. Students will engage in various projects that challenge their skills and creativity. Each project is designed to build on previous knowledge while introducing new techniques and tools. By the end of the camp, participants will have created several inlay pieces, each showcasing their improved abilities.

Community and Collaboration

In addition to the technical skills taught, the camp fosters a sense of community among participants. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another’s experiences. This collaborative environment encourages growth and innovation, enriching the overall learning experience.

Conclusion

Our Intermediate to Advanced Inlay Camp offers a unique opportunity for students to delve deeper into the art of inlay, particularly as it relates to Lutherie. With a focus on advanced tools, techniques, and shop setup, participants will leave the camp with a heightened understanding of the craft and the confidence to apply their skills to future projects. Whether preparing for the instrument assembly camp or simply seeking to refine their inlay abilities, this camp provides the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary for success.

Additional Camp Details

All of our camps take place at the Foster Mandolin & Guitar Co. Shop, located at 3045 Henley Way in Spring Hill, TN, near Nashville. Breakfast, snacks, and lunch are included. Currently, lodging is not included. However, we are happy to provide information about nearby hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and much more upon request.

After making the downpayment (or full payment when applicable), you will receive more class details and a questionnaire that will provide us with more information about you and your camp project.

Questions and More Info

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions or if you need more information. Instructor, David Foster can be reached via email at [email protected], phone at 931-698-5502, or you can contact us using our online form.

About the Instructor

A musician since childhood and dentist by profession, Dr. David Foster has always had a natural talent and passion for working with his hands. David combined this with more than 30 years of woodworking experience to launch his lifelong dream and labor of love – Foster Mandolin & Guitar Co. – in 2020.

He has since launched Doozy, a line of instruments using Tennessee-sourced materials, and continues to deal in vintage instruments and parts – a hobby he adopted more than 35 years ago.

Most recently, David introduced the Foster Mandolin & Guitar Co. Camps, which offers inlay, banjo and mandolin assembly courses, and more. By providing comprehensive training, he hopes the academy will help nurture a new generation of talented instrument makers, preserving the art of creating these intricate and valuable objects.

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