Ukuleles are the newest addition to the Russell Guitars line. The first three are in process now.  The one pictured here will most likely be the first of the three to be completed.  These first three are all concert ukuleles. James plans to focus on concert, tenor, and baritone ukuleles.

The back and sides on this ukulele are made of Black Limba.  It is in the “boat” stage now, having the back and sides glued together. It also has its kerfed lining glued in and its neck and tail blocks glued in place.  Kerfed lining is very unusual for ukuleles, as is the beveled back strip and the carefully carved back bracing.  But James is clear that he wants the same level of quality and attention to detail that he uses when making Russell guitars.

The other two ukuleles being made at the same time are not in the boat stage yet.  They are both being made of Peruvian Mahogany of a grade and beauty that is difficult to find.  They both have delicate back strips made of Maple and Mahogany.  I will post photos of those backs soon.

We are still talking about model names and have come up with some good ones, but nothing has stuck yet.  When the right names come for the models, we will know it and will share them here.