COMMISSIONING AN INSTRUMENT

If you are looking for a new handmade double bass, whether it be a Heppleston model, an instrument designed to your specifications or a copy of an existing instrument, get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Find out more about the process of commissioning a double bass below:

PROCESS

The first step towards owning a Heppleston Double Bass is to try one for yourself. I usually have an instrument available to play at my workshop, and if not, I can arrange for one to be made available for you.

Once you've decided to proceed with an order, we’ll discuss your specific requirements, how you intend to use the instrument, the style of music you play, the ideal size, and other preferences. From there, I can advise on the most suitable model, setup options, and materials that will best align with your needs and playing style.

When all the details have been finalised, a comprehensive quote will be provided. To secure your place on my waiting list, a deposit of one-third of the final price is required, and a start date for the build will then be scheduled.

Each double bass typically takes around four months to complete. Throughout the process, I’ll keep you updated with regular progress reports and photos, so you can follow your instrument’s journey from start to finish.

Once your bass is complete and ready for collection, we can make any final setup adjustments you may need, ensuring the instrument is perfectly tailored to you, ready to begin your musical journey together.

I offer interest-free credit through the Take it Away Scheme, please get in contact for more information. Credit subject to status and affordability. Terms and Conditions Apply.

HEPPLESTON MODELS

CUSTOM DESIGNS AND COPYING

I have a wide range of plans for old master bass models, I can copy an existing instrument, develop or design a double bass especially with and for you.

MATERIALS

Front: Italian Spruce

Back: Bosnian maple, English Poplar or Balkan Poplar

Ribs: Bosnian maple

Neck and scroll: Bosnian maple

Fingerboards: Ebony (Ebony alternative Sonowood also available)

Nut and Saddle: Ebony

Bridge: High Quality Maple

Tailpiece: Ebony

Purfling: Maple and Pearwood

Tuners: Brass Baker Style

Varnish: Hand applied oil varnish of my own special recipe

Neck Finish: Oil:

Strings: Your choice

Case: High quality 22mm thick padded soft case

AVAILABLE MODIFICATIONS

String length
Neck Radius Shape
Arched or flat back
Solid bridge or bridge with adjusters
Rib Depth
4 or 5 string set up
Left-handed set up
Baroque set up

AVAILBLE ADDITIONS

C-Extension - I use the capo system extension, with a full ebony board.
Side Bumpers - Ebony bumpers to protect the edgework of the bass.

Bespoke carvings - these can be custom scrolls, carving designs on the back or sides of the scroll, or even on the back of the bass itself.
Purfling designs - double purfling, custom designs and patterns can be inlayed into the instrument
Rosettes - these beautiful additions can be designed and inlayed into the front of the instrument, underneath the fingerboard.
Position markers - small maple position markers can be added to the fingerboard
Pick ups - a variety of different picks up are available and can be installed onto your double bass

FOR CURRENT PRICES AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COMMISSIONING A DOUBLE BASS PLEASE GET IN TOUCH BELOW:

Commissioning a new double bass