Lutherie – the art of making stringed instruments like guitars – has got Sharleen Simmons by the heart strings.

 

Ever since experimenting with making cigar-box guitars and cookie-tin banjos, she found an affinity with the art and turned to studying it full time. 

"It's challenging to start any new business when you're working a lot of hours," she says, adding that a typical guitar takes around 100 hours to build. 

 

"And it's a bit of a hurdle to learn a new language, not to mention the book keeping and taxes in foreign language. I'm lucky to have a Swedish partner," she says.  

 

She added that adapting from the Canadian way of life to the Swedish has been a challenge. 

 

"Some people say Swedes are a little cold – I would never say that – but I have noticed that it takes a little while to break into their social groups. Most of my friends are other people who've immigrated here and I meet them through learning Swedish."

 

Together, the couple make around one instrument a month, mostly for customers in the US, Canada, or Asia. The starting price is 33,000 kronor ($4,620).

 

Sharleen and Gustav. Photo: Private

 

"An instrument should immediately feel like an old friend," she explains on her website. 

 

Indeed, Simmons is in her element when talking about guitars, evidenced when asked about the which piece makes her the most proud.

 

"I'm really excited about what's on my workbench now, the wood I'm using to build has a cool pattern, this flamed maple that really pops," she begins.

 

"Around the sound hole there's a decorative inlay – and this is where guitar makes really like to show off the design element. I'm happy how it came out with colours and textures, and I think it will look and sound really good. While you always strive for good sound, most customers look for asthetic and craftmanship," she said.

 

"I want it to look well-made, sturdy, and recognizable as my own."

 

Another of Simmons' guitars. Photo: Sebastian Bularca 

 

While she admits that she wishes the market for steel-stringed instruments was bigger in Sweden ("Everyone learns on classic guitars here"), she hopes her business will continue to grow. And she's not averse to aiming high. 

 

"My dream customer? Tough question. But I love the oldies," she says.

 

"If someone like Paul Simon or Joni Mitchell had one of my guitars then I'd be pretty darn happy indeed."