Cat lovers, rejoice. Team GW might have just found the perfect gift (for yourself, of course) just in time for the holidays. Everyone loves a funky pickguard – but how about one that marries your addiction to guitars with your dedication to your four-legged friend?
Well, a small business on Etsy, named ThreeStools, owned by engineer and bass player Julia, is doing just that – creating custom pickguards in the shape of your cat.
“It all started when I wanted my own bass to feel more unique – I hand-drew a design on its pickguard and instantly loved how it transformed my instrument,” Julia explains. “Friends noticed, asked me to make theirs special too, and soon I began taking local commissions here in Singapore.
“When I started sharing my designs on Reddit, the response was incredible. People encouraged me to open a shop, but it was the overwhelming reaction to my very first cat-themed pickguard – the Telecat – that gave me the final push to launch on Etsy.”
The Etsy shop eventually expanded into custom 3D-printed pickguards and knobs for guitarists and bassists, and you can even order one that’s the spitting image of your cat.
And if you’re not really feeling felines, Julia is also taking inspiration from the rest of the animal kingdom, including this aptly-titled SharkRay pickguard for Stingray basses, and this stunning, glow-in-the-dark aquatic-themed design on a G&L L2500 bass.
“It was the overwhelming reaction to my very first cat-themed pickguard, the Telecat, that gave me the final push to launch on Etsy”
Cat Lovers, Rejoice – This Bassist is Creating Custom Pickguards in the Shape of Your Cat
If you’re a cat lover and a music enthusiast, this unique fusion of passions is bound to strike a chord. The exquisitely crafted cat-shaped pickguards have carved a niche in the world of custom musical accessories, making waves among musicians and feline fans alike.This article explores the fascinating journey of a bassist who transformed an overwhelming positive response to their very first cat-themed pickguard-the iconic Telecat-into a flourishing Etsy shop dedicated to custom, personalized cat pickguards.
What is a Pickguard and Why Go custom?
A pickguard is a protective plate on a guitar or bass that shields its finish from scratches and wear caused by picking or strumming. while traditionally functional, pickguards are now an artistic outlet for personal expression.
- Standard Pickguards: Usually come in plain colors or classic designs.
- Custom Pickguards: Offer unique shapes, intricate designs, and personality.
- Cat-Themed Pickguards: Blend love for music and cats – perfect for musicians who cherish both.
The Birth of the Telecat Pickguard: A Case Study
The story begins wiht a creative bassist who sketched a novel idea: crafting pickguards that mirror the gentle contours of their cat. The first design, the Telecat, merged the iconic Telecaster pickguard shape with subtle feline features, creating an instant hit.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design Theme | Telecaster-style pickguard infused with cat ear and tail silhouettes |
| Material | High-quality acrylic and laminated woods for durability and aesthetic appeal |
| Customization | Colors, cat portraits, and even patterns mimicking fur |
| Compatibility | Fits most standard Telecaster guitars with minor adjustments available |
| Launch Platform | Etsy shop for direct customer engagement and personalized orders |
The Reaction That Ignited a Passion
The overwhelmingly positive online response to the Telecat was a game-changer. Cat lovers flocked to comment, share, and pre-order these custom accessories, pushing the bassist-owner to open an Etsy shop.Customers rave about the uniqueness and personal touch these pickguards bring to their instruments- музыка meets meow.
Why Custom Cat Pickguards are Becoming Popular
Ther’s an unmistakable charm in owning a pickguard that features your feline companion’s likeness. Hear are some reasons why these custom cat-shaped pickguards are gaining momentum:
- Personal Connection: Show your love for your cat in your music gear.
- Unique Style Statement: stand out with truly one-of-a-kind guitar accessories.
- Perfect Gift: For musicians who are also cat aficionados.
- High-Quality Craftsmanship: Carefully crafted using premium materials for durability.
- Customization Options: Tailored shapes, colors, and even detailed cat portraits.
- Supporting Artisan Small Business: Buying from the Etsy shop supports self-reliant craftsmen.
Other Popular Cat-Themed Designs Besides the Telecat
While the Telecat caught the spotlight, the Etsy shop now offers diverse cat-shaped pickguards tailored to different guitar makes and personal tastes.
| Pickguard Model | Cat Design Highlight | Compatible Instruments |
|---|---|---|
| Stratopurr | Graceful cat in sitting pose with subtle paw details | Fender Stratocaster, Squier |
| Jazzcat | Minimalist silhouette inspired by jazz cats | Jazz Bass, Fender Jazzmaster |
| Cat/Caster Classic | Elegant full-body cat outline integrated with classic shapes | Various Telecaster and similar styles |
| Kitty Fret | Whimsical paw print fretboard inlays and coordinating pickguard | Any guitar with standard pickguard slots |
Benefits of Using Custom Cat Pickguards
- Enhanced Personal Expression: Customize your instrument to reflect your personality and passions.
- added Protection: Guards your guitar finish from scratches, maintaining instrument longevity.
- Conversation Starter: Unique designs often spark compliments and inquiries.
- Increased Resale Value: Custom work by skilled makers can boost desirability and value.
Practical Tips for Ordering Your Custom Cat Pickguard
- Measure Your Instrument: Check your guitar’s model and pickguard dimensions for compatibility.
- Send Photos of Your Cat: Many custom creators work from your cat’s picture to craft a truly personalized pickguard.
- Choose Materials Wisely: Acrylic for vibrant colors, laminated wood for natural warmth, or a hybrid.
- Communicate Clearly: Describe your customization details – colour, shape, and special features.
- Request a Preview: ask for design mock-ups before production to ensure expectations align.
Firsthand Experience: The Creator’s Journey
“The first time I shared a photo of the Telecat pickguard, I was blown away by the reaction. Strangers and friends alike started messaging me, fascinated by the quaint cat ears and delicate details. That overwhelming love and encouragement gave me the courage to open my Etsy shop. Now, I spend my days blending music gear with feline inspiration. Every pickguard I craft is a labor of love, connecting musicians with the cat companions they adore.”
Perfect Gift Ideas for Cat-Loving Musicians
Looking for an unforgettable gift for the guitar or bass player who also adores cats? Consider these thoughtful cat-pickguard options:
- Personalized pickguard with the silhouette of their own cat
- Cat-themed guitar strap and pick set to match the pickguard
- Custom guitar case with cat artwork
- Bundle package from the etsy shop including pickguard and matching inlays
Summary Table: Custom Cat Pickguard SEO Keywords to Boost Your Search
| Keyword | Search Intent |
|---|---|
| Cat pickguards | Looking for cat-themed guitar/bass pickguards |
| Custom cat pickguard | Personalized cat-shaped pickguard for specific guitar |
| Telecat pickguard | Specific model/style of cat pickguard based on Telecaster |
| Cat-shaped guitar accessory | General search for feline-themed guitar components |
| Etsy cat pickguard | Finding cat pickguards on Etsy marketplace |
| Cat bassist custom gear | Cat lover musicians seeking specialized gear |
As Julia notes, “Every piece I make carries that same spirit of creativity and individuality that inspired my very first design.” Well, it’s definitely one way to stand out from the, ahem, litter.
Speaking of cats… and perhaps the most famous cat of them all, Fender’s collaboration with Hello Kitty is still going strong. In fact, the brand debuted white- and black-finished options, limited-edition feline-themed fuzz, a guitar cable, and some apparel just last month.
