Every month in Best of Guitar Gallery, we highlight a small selection of guitars that stand out for their artistry, design, and craftsmanship. In May, we’re showcasing guitars crafted from highly figured maple.
Why Do We Love Figured Maple So Much?
From the moment you first saw a flame-top Les Paul hanging on a shop wall, spotted your hero playing a PRS Private Stock in concert, or strummed a Taylor acoustic with quilted back and sides, you instantly knew beautifully figured maple can transform a guitar into something truly special. It’s no surprise. For centuries, makers of fine orchestral stringed instruments have prized figured maple not only for its stunning looks but also for its incomparable acoustic properties. Fast-forward to now, and our love for figured maple is as strong as ever. In celebration of all the things we appreciate about this exceptional tonewood, Sweetwater’s guitar experts assembled this curated collection that includes their absolute favorites.
