You said you don't want to be overwhelmed. To that end, a kit is a better choice. Buy a kit with bent sides and a rough-shaped neck. Also, use plastic binding for the first try.
A kit will give you a taste of most building tasks and give a greater chance of success. Complete one kit and decide if you want to continue building guitars. Then you can bend sides.
If you shop around you will find that a Martin kit is a relative bargain. Also, if you are a member of the MOC, you get 20% off. Savings are greater if you buy during a 15 to 20% sale.
My first build is a rosewood/Sitka 000 for about $300. That experience gave me enough confidence to build from plans. I'm on my 4th and 5th builds now. I sell some guitars to friends or relatives for cost, just for the experience.
|