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Discover the Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour in West Virginia

Located in Lewisburg, West Virginia, the Appalachian Tonewood Shop Visit Tour offers musicians and woodworking enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes look at a specialty workshop supplying premium tonewood for guitars, violins, mandolins, and other stringed instruments. Available by appointment, this guided shop visit explores how Appalachian hardwoods are sourced, milled, seasoned, and graded for instrument-making.

Visitors gain insight into the careful selection process that ensures resonance, stability, and tonal quality in handcrafted instruments.

Why it’s special: The Appalachian Tonewood Shop Visit Tour provides rare access to the material foundation of fine instruments, showcasing how West Virginia hardwoods become the backbone of world-class luthiery.

History & Story of Appalachian Tonewood

Appalachian Tonewood was founded to connect regional hardwood resources with the global instrument-making community. Drawing from West Virginia’s rich forests, the company focuses on responsibly sourced maple, spruce, walnut, and other specialty woods prized for tonal performance.

Over time, Appalachian Tonewood has supplied independent luthiers and established instrument builders across the United States and internationally.

What You’ll See & Do on the Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour

• Learn how tonewood is selected and graded for acoustic performance
• Observe milling and cutting processes for instrument billets
• Discover seasoning and drying techniques
• Explore different species of Appalachian hardwoods
• Discuss luthiery applications and wood characteristics

Hands-On Elements: Visitors may examine and handle select wood samples under guidance.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted with staff approval.

Souvenirs & Extras: Tonewood billets and specialty wood products available for purchase by builders and musicians.

Pricing of the Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (appointment required)

Shop visits are typically complimentary but must be scheduled in advance.

Visiting information for Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour

Duration: 45–60 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome; suitable for musicians and woodworking enthusiasts

Accessibility: Working warehouse environment; some areas may include industrial flooring

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed (by appointment only)

Appointments are required for all visits.

Nearby attractions to Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour

• Greenbrier Valley Theatre
• Lost World Caverns
• Lewisburg Historic District

FAQs About Visiting the Appalachian Tonewood Shop Tour

Do I need an appointment to visit?
Yes. All shop visits must be scheduled in advance.

Is this experience suitable for guitar or violin builders?
Yes. The tour is particularly valuable for luthiers interested in sourcing quality Appalachian tonewood.

Can visitors purchase wood during the visit?
Yes. Tonewood billets and specialty cuts may be available for purchase.

What types of wood are typically available?
Common species include maple, spruce, walnut, and other hardwoods suitable for instrument building.

Is this a retail store or production workshop?
It is primarily a production and supply workshop rather than a traditional retail storefront.