Lighthouse Guitars brings together available instruments, future builds, and a thoughtful approach to craftsmanship. Behind that work is West Michigan Guitar Workshop, where the people, process, and care behind each guitar remain an important part of the story.
Don’s journey into guitar building began in 2003 when a mutual friend introduced him to a master luthier. At the time, Don had already been considering building guitars himself and was eager to see a recently completed instrument. The guitar was remarkable. The balance of bass, mids, and treble was exactly what he had been searching for, with a rich, round tone and subtle string undertones that gave it a warm, woody character. That experience solidified his desire to build a guitar that could meet the tonal standards he had been chasing, something he realized he couldn’t find or afford in the mass market.
At the time, Don was playing a Martin 000M, but the guitar’s generic tone and construction left him unsatisfied. He knew that if he wanted the sound he was after, he would have to build it himself. Not long after, he found himself spending time in a workshop filled with nearly 18 unfinished guitars, many of which were intended to be given to people who simply needed a good instrument. It was clear from the beginning that this craft was about more than profit. It was about creating meaningful, high-quality instruments that would find their way into the hands of the right players.
Don began learning the trade from the ground up, even sweeping floors to help pay for lessons. Over time, he became more deeply involved in the process and developed a strong foundation in luthiery. He learned the importance of precise joinery, attention to detail, patience, and, above all, tone. Through hands-on experience, he refined his skills and developed his own approach, embracing experimentation and learning through mistakes.
Over the years, Don also helped others begin their own guitar-building journeys. Many of those students became close friends, and witnessing someone play the first chords on an instrument they built remains one of the most rewarding parts of the craft.
Now retired, Don continues building high-quality instruments with a focus on accessibility for working musicians. His goal is not to create ornate showpieces, but to produce guitars that elevate the player’s experience. He believes that guitar building is not about competition. Every builder creates something unique, and musicians naturally gravitate toward the instruments that best match their individual style and sound.