Fraulini Guitar Co

Overview

Fraulini Guitar Co. produces handmade acoustic guitars crafted by Todd Cambio, focusing on replicas of historic instruments from the early 1900s and original designs inspired by vintage models like those from Martin and Gibson. The brand targets traditional musicians, particularly in blues and ethnic music styles, with models including six- and 12-string guitars. Instruments are built one at a time in a traditional manner in Madison, Wisconsin.¹³⁴

History

Fraulini Guitar Co. is operated by Todd Cambio, a guitar maker based in Madison, Wisconsin, who hand-builds instruments inspired by early 1900s designs. Cambio draws inspiration from historic guitars such as those influencing his Seven Sisters series, named after his grandmother and her sisters, and replicas of models played by artists like Leadbelly and Lydia Mendoza. He also creates the Ultra Modern line based on old Martins and Gibsons, alongside ethnic instruments.²⁴⁷

Product Lines

Manufacturing

All Fraulini guitars are hand-built by Todd Cambio in his workshop in Madison, Wisconsin, using traditional methods with one instrument completed at a time. Production is in-house and not outsourced.¹³⁴

Notable Products

• Seven Sisters Series - Straight copies of seven historic guitars that influenced Todd Cambio.
• Ultra Modern - Original designs inspired by vintage Martin and Gibson models.
• Leadbelly 12-String Replica - Replica of the 12-string guitar associated with blues musician Leadbelly.
• Lydia Mendoza 12-String - Reproduction of the 12-string used by Mexican-American musician Lydia Mendoza.

Reputation

Fraulini guitars are regarded by enthusiasts for their fidelity to historic designs and high craftsmanship in replicating early 1900s acoustics. Professionals in traditional blues and folk scenes value the playability and tone of the handmade instruments. Limited production by a single luthier may restrict availability, but no widespread criticisms appear in available sources.²⁵