What Tarrant Guitars is and where it sits in Tasmania
Tarrant Guitars is a small Tasmanian workshop run by luthier Billy Tarrant that makes bespoke stringed instruments by hand. Source material describes the business as located on the north west coast of Tasmania. The evidence does not give a street address or public opening hours, so anyone planning a visit should confirm the precise location and visitor arrangements in advance.
Instruments and specialities
The workshop focuses on custom, all-solid timber instruments. Acoustic guitars are offered in tenor and standard formats, including 6, 8 and 12 string models in a variety of body shapes. Electric guitars, lap steel Weissenborn style instruments, resonator options, ukuleles and an 8 string flat back Irish bouzouki are also within the maker's repertoire. This makes the workshop suitable for players seeking a tailored instrument rather than a mass produced guitar.
Materials and environmental considerations
Tarrant Guitars uses locally and internationally sourced solid tonewoods. The evidence names Tasmanian timbers associated with the workshop, including Blackwood, Myrtle, Huon Pine and Black heart Sassafras. The maker states materials are acquired through trusted and environmentally conscious sources, including FSC certified supplies and salvaged tonewoods. If timber provenance matters to you, ask for documentation or supplier details when you enquire, and check any claims before committing to a build.
The build process and what to expect as a client
Instruments are built entirely in house from scratch. Commissioned instruments involve choices about body shape, timber, bindings, neck size, scale length and inlays so each result is highly personalised. The maker provides regular photos and updates during the build journey, which helps if you are ordering from interstate or overseas. One source reference to the luthier's practice mentions roughly 160 hours of work on an instrument; this indicates the workshop invests substantial time in each build. Confirm current lead times and the frequency or format of updates as these details can change.
Awards, professional connections and timber suppliers
The luthier has been recognised in Tasmanian craft circles. A parliamentary record lists winners of a Tasmanian Craft Fair and notes a Tasmanian Premier's Award for Excellence that recognises Billy Tarrant. The workshop also appears in industry networks; Tasmanian Tonewoods lists partnerships with local luthiers and supplies the kinds of timbers used by Tarrant Guitars. If you value a local supply chain, ask how timber was sourced and whether material can be traced to a supplier such as Tasmanian Tonewoods.
Suitability and who should consider a commission
A Tarrant instrument is best for players who want a tailor made instrument: people who need a specific neck feel, unique tonewood combinations, non standard stringing or period instrument styles such as Weissenborn lap slide. It is less suitable for anyone needing an immediate purchase from a shop shelf. Custom builds require planning and time, so consider whether you can wait for a bespoke timeline.
Practical checks before you travel or place an order
Confirm the workshop address and visiting hours. The source locates the business generally on Tasmania's north west coast but does not provide public access details. Verify lead times, payment terms and the schedule for progress photos or in‑person fittings. Check timber provenance and any certification you require. If you are bringing a damaged instrument for repair or a part exchange, confirm the workshop's current services and whether repairs are offered.
Transport, access and visitor expectations
North west Tasmania has varied road distances from major centres. Arrange travel time and vehicle access with the maker before you set out. The workshop appears to be a small, custom operation rather than a retail outlet, so plan a visit only after prior contact. If you are ordering from interstate or overseas, clarify shipping arrangements, customs responsibilities and any insurance requirements for transit.
Final practical notes
Commissioning a handbuilt instrument is a collaborative process. Use the initial enquiry to confirm timber choices, expected finish options, structural details you care about and the communication rhythm for build updates. Where the source mentions awards and partnerships, treat those as indicators of professional recognition and local industry connections, but confirm current operating details and availability before travel or payment.