What is Strings Micro Factory?
The Strings Micro Factory provides a modern, systems-based approach to acoustic instrument building. Designed specifically for luthiers, educators, small shops, and serious hobbyists, the Micro Factory combines precision jigs, pinned-template tooling, and thoughtfully engineered workflows to improve accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
Builders using the system can confidently execute everything from brace layouts to plate assembly and achieve “closing the box” with professional-level consistency. With support for SMF body shapes, third-party, and custom shapes, the Micro Factory integrates seamlessly into existing shop processes.
In addition to the Micro Factory kits themselves, we offer general-purpose luthier tools built with the same focus on reliability, accuracy, and shop efficiency.
For builders with specialized needs or new ideas, we also provide custom design and manufacturing services—helping turn one-off concepts into production-ready tools and fixtures tailored to their workflow.
What’s in the kit?
The Strings Micro Factory Kit is a coordinated system of precision tools and templates designed to bring speed, repeatability, and confidence to one of the most critical phases of acoustic instrument construction: “closing the box.”.
Rather than replacing traditional lutherie skills, the kit supports them by providing a structured, accurate framework that helps builders install bracing, align plates, prepare the rims, and assemble acoustic bodies with consistency and control.
The kits are built from a set of reference designs created by SMF with standard shapes and bracing layouts. Builders can choose the path best suited for them:
New builders can take advantage of a clear, reliable construction path, reducing guesswork during complex assembly steps and helping them achieve professional-level results sooner.
Experienced builders can integrate the kit into their workflow while continuing to use existing tooling, molds, & forms. Custom kits are also available for builders who want to bring their existing models into the SMF framework.
Note: We are doing 1-1 consultation on the kits at this time. Contact us for details.
Who is it for?
For the Hobbyist - Build with Confidence & Efficiency
Your time in the shop is precious. Strings Micro Factory helps you make the most of it by:
Providing precision templates for consistency in every build
Creating a structured workflow to enhance efficiency
Enabling repeatability so you can craft high-quality instruments time after time
Our system implements proven manufacturing techniques in a way that works for small-scale builders, helping you build with the same efficiency as larger operations—without sacrificing craftsmanship. And because assembly is streamlined, you remain in full control of artistic details like rosette making, inlays, purfling, and headstock design.
Growing your instrument-making business requires more than just skill—it demands efficiency. Strings Micro Factory works with professional builders to:
Integrate their unique designs into a scalable framework
Optimize production processes for increased output and consistency
Maintain craftsmanship while streamlining workflow
By leveraging techniques used in larger-scale manufacturing and adapting them for small to medium-sized shops, Strings Micro Factory allows you to scale your business efficiently while keeping the artistic and tonal aspects of your instruments entirely your own.
For the Professional – Scale Without Compromise
Teaching instrument building should enhance your work, not disrupt it. Strings Micro Factory empowers educators by:
Providing tools that facilitate structured, hands-on learning experiences
Creating opportunities for workshops without interrupting personal projects
Helping establish a profitable new revenue stream through instruction
With the efficiency of the Micro Factory system, you can offer students a well-structured learning experience while still allowing them—and yourself—to explore the creative and tonal aspects that make instrument building an art.
