2000
Newson Mandola
© Frank Ford, 2000; Photos by FF

"If I wanted a job running a router, I'd work for the door factory!" That was Paul Newson's response when I asked him if he used a pantograph or other device to machine carve the tops and backs of his mandolins and guitars. Paul is a true "hand builder" who works freehand as he carves each individual instrument. Because of that, he can make subtle (or extreme) changes from one to the next, and he can take on custom orders for special instruments with ease.

Here's a special Newson mandola. Shaped like a conventional archtop guitar, this one is a treat to the eye and ear.

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