Bakersfield Builder Crafts Custom Left-Handed Guitars

Former educator Jim Schaffer creates specialized instruments for left-handed musicians in Bakersfield.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Jewelry Making

Bold vector editorial illustration of a left-handed electric guitar on a wooden workbench, representing artisan instrument craftsmanship. — Retired teacher Jim Schaffer crafts custom left-handed electric guitars at Southpaw Soundwaves in Bakersfield, filling a niche for musicians seeking ergonomic instruments. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you choose to purchase custom-made tools or instruments specifically tailored to your personal physical needs?

Jim Schaffer, the founder of Southpaw Soundwaves, builds custom, handcrafted guitars designed specifically for left-handed musicians. After retiring from teaching, Schaffer continues his lifelong passion for instrument construction in Bakersfield.

Why it matters

Schaffer founded the business to fill a specific market gap by providing left-handed players with instruments tailored to their unique ergonomic needs. His work ensures that musicians who are often overlooked by major manufacturers can access custom-fit equipment.

Building a single custom guitar requires approximately 150 hours of labor. This technical expertise was developed over years of study and trial and error, including guidance from a master instrument maker in Hawaii.

The players

Jim Schaffer

He is the founder of Southpaw Soundwaves and a retired educator who specialized in teaching technology.

Southpaw Soundwaves

This Bakersfield-based business specializes in the production of handcrafted, left-handed guitars.

Earl Warren Junior High School

This educational institution served as the workplace for Schaffer, where he introduced instrument construction to his students.

The details

Schaffer formerly taught Exploring Technology at Earl Warren Junior High School before his retirement. He developed his instrument-making skills through a combination of professional guidance in Hawaii and rigorous independent practice.

15 years ago Schaffer began having students build ukuleles in class.

Culture Shift

The rise of specialized, independent luthiers like Schaffer reflects a broader societal movement toward custom, sustainable products over mass-produced alternatives. This shift prioritizes individual accessibility and craft over the standardized designs prevalent in the commercial music industry.

Local musicians can now access professional-grade custom guitars tailored to their specific handedness without relying on limited off-the-shelf inventory. This availability provides Bakersfield residents with a personalized alternative to standard music retailers.

The takeaway

Custom instrument building demonstrates how specialized skills can solve persistent logistical hurdles for niche communities. Investing in high-quality, handcrafted tools often results in better comfort and performance for the individual user.