Tag Archives: Workshop

New plans: Gosewyn Spyker – a guitar from 1760…

Posted on November 23, 2019 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

Today I will give a lecture for the Dutch Lute Society about the oldest surviving guitar from the Netherlands. Made in 1760 in Amsterdam by Gosewyn Spyker. This guitar was preserved in the collection of Duivenvoorde Castle, where it was … Continue reading →

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A special parlor: The Grunewald “Harp-Guitar”

Posted on July 4, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

One of the perks of guitar making are the special guitars that sometimes pass the shop. And being a somewhat quirky person I somehow manage get some of the oddest pieces of guitar history. Like this 10-string “Harp-Guitar” made by … Continue reading →

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A Dutch Tool Chest

Posted on May 13, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

During the days at the Batavia Shipyard it became clear to me that I want two new toolboxes, destined for the re-enactment events. The reason is that some of my tools are simply too dear to me to expose them … Continue reading →

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Forging ahead

Posted on April 19, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

It’s a craft that always captivated me: blacksmithing. The art of working and shaping metal into useable objects. I was always fond of the “Skippers of the Kameleon“, a Dutch series of childrens books, written by Hotze de Roos. In … Continue reading →

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A 17th century “Dutch Plane” – (free plans!)

Posted on April 1, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

In 1628 the Swedish warship Vasa set out for its maiden voyage. With 64 canons on 2 decks it was the pride of the Swedish marine. But this was shortlived; after only one mile she keeled over, water poored trough … Continue reading →

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Sellas theorbo update…

Posted on March 26, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

While the re-enactment season has started, work in the shop continues as normal. Jannemieke’s Sellas theorbo is getting along fine. Time for an update… The carvings on the back of the neck are finished. We were a little bit in … Continue reading →

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Renaissance chisels

Posted on March 1, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

It’s virtually impossible to make a 100% accurate re-enactment kit. Especially on a low budget. Sandra and I decided to start with a basic set and improve it over time. Replace, add and remove materials, clothes, cutlery, tools and accessories. … Continue reading →

Posted in Events, History, Re-enactment, Research, Think different, Tools, Uncategorized, Woodworking, Workshop | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Carving along…

Posted on January 3, 2018 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

As you know I am always on the lookout for inspiration. This can literally be found anywhere: nature, books, movies, etc. But works by other craftsmen and -women often prove to be the best examples. Like this “Boerenwagen” (Farmers-wagon) encountered … Continue reading →

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7-day photo challenge

Posted on November 27, 2017 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

I was challenged by Jannemieke de Jong to a 7-day B/W photo challenge. Seven days. Seven black and white photos of your life. No people. No explanations. Every day, challenge someone new. Day 1/7

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Monday f*ckups

Posted on November 6, 2017 by Jan van Cappelle (Javaca)

Well, there is a moment in a luthier’s life when you step back and realize; Holy hell, I’ve cut the scroll of my Trumpet Marine on the wrong side of the head…. Yep, that happened to me today and I … Continue reading →

Posted in Nonsense, Projects, Think different, Uncategorized, Woodworking, Workshop | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment