Repairs & Bow Services
Professional repair, restoration and bow services for violins, violas and cellos. Every instrument is individually assessed to preserve its structural integrity, tonal character and historical value.
Spiral Peg Bushing
Spiral bushings are used to restore worn peg holes while preserving as much original wood as possible. Move the slider to compare the repair before and after treatment.
Crack Repair
Every crack is individually assessed to ensure the most appropriate repair. Traditional restoration techniques are used to restore the instrument’s structural integrity while preserving as much original material as possible.
Varnish Retouching
Varnish retouching is carried out to reduce the visual impact of wear and minor damage while respecting the instrument’s original varnish. Every retouch is individually colour-matched for a natural finish.
More Workshop Examples
Below is a selection of additional work carried out in my workshop, including structural repairs on violins, violas and cellos.
Repair & Restoration Guide Prices
The guide prices below provide an indication of typical workshop costs. A detailed quotation will always be provided before any work is undertaken to ensure the most appropriate treatment for your instrument.
Important Information: Every repair begins with an in-person assessment. While photographs can be helpful in identifying the nature of a repair, they rarely reveal the full extent of the damage. For this reason, I do not provide final quotations based on photographs alone. Every instrument is carefully examined in person to ensure an accurate diagnosis, appropriate repair plan and detailed quotation.
Routine Repairs
A selection of commonly requested workshop repairs.
| Service | Violin | Viola | Cello |
| Open Seam (per section) | £35 | £35 | £35 |
| Spiral Bushings (per peg) | £35 | £35 | £50 |
| Peg Bushings (per peg) | £85 | £85 | £130 |
Restoration
Repairs requiring more extensive workshop time and individual assessment.
| Services | Violin | Viola | Cello |
| Opening & Closing Instrument | From £180 | From £200 | From £280 |
| Fingerboard Replacement* | From £220 | From £240 | From £280 |
| Edge Replacement | From £120 | From £140 | From £200 |
| Varnish Retouching | From £60 | From £60 | From £60 |
| Crack Repair | From £12/mm | From £12/mm | From £12/mm |
Important Information
* Fingerboard replacement is labour only. The cost of the fingerboard is not included and will depend on the quality and grade of ebony selected.
Crack repairs are priced from £12 per millimetre but every repair is individually assessed. The final quotation depends on the location, condition and complexity of the damage.
Varnish retouching is individually colour-matched and priced according to the extent of the repair required.
Major Structural Repairs
Major structural repairs are quoted individually, as the extent of the damage and the work required can vary considerably from one instrument to another. Every instrument is carefully assessed before a detailed quotation is provided.
| Service | Violin | Viola | Cello |
| Neck Reset | Quotation | Quotation | Quotation |
| Soundpost Front Crack Repair | Quotation | Quotation | Quotation |
Before You Visit the Workshop
If you have a question that isn’t answered below, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’ll be happy to discuss your instrument and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
Yes. I repair and restore instruments at all levels, from student violins to professional and handmade instruments. Every repair receives the same level of care and attention to detail.
Yes. I work on both modern and older instruments, always choosing the most appropriate repair method for the instrument’s condition, age and historical significance. Every repair aims to preserve the instrument’s structural integrity, tonal performance and original character.
Repair times vary depending on the nature of the work and current workshop commitments. Minor repairs can often be completed within a few days, while more extensive restoration may take several weeks. An estimated timescale will always be provided before work begins.
Yes. Visits to the workshop are by appointment to ensure sufficient time is available to assess your instrument thoroughly and discuss the most appropriate repair options.
Photographs are welcome and can help identify the nature of a repair before your appointment. However, a final quotation can only be provided after the instrument has been examined in person, as photographs rarely reveal the full extent of structural damage.
Every varnish retouch is individually colour matched to blend as naturally as possible with the surrounding varnish. The aim is always to minimise the visual impact of damage while respecting the original finish of the instrument.
Yes. I can assess accidental damage, provide written quotations where required by insurers, and carry out professional repairs following approval.
Yes. I offer a range of bow services, including professional rehairing, leather grip replacement, thumb leather replacement and general maintenance. If your bow requires more extensive restoration, it will be individually assessed before a quotation is provided.
This depends on the instrument’s condition, value and the nature of the damage. During your assessment, I’ll explain the available options and provide honest advice to help you decide whether repair represents the best long-term solution.
Bow Services
A well-maintained bow is just as important as a well-maintained instrument. In addition to instrument repairs and restoration, I offer a range of professional bow services through my workshop in collaboration with Carla Jones.
By providing both instrument and bow services, I aim to offer musicians a convenient and comprehensive solution for the ongoing care and maintenance of their string instruments. Every bow is individually assessed to ensure the most appropriate maintenance or repair is carried out, and bow services, including rehairing, are available to customers throughout the UK via secure postal service.
Bow Service Guide Prices
| Service | Price |
| Violin & Viola Rehair | £85 |
| Cello Rehair | £95 |
| Double Bass Rehair | £105 |
| Leather Thumb Grip Replacement | £45 |
| Silver Lapping Replacement | £50 |
| Tip Plate Replacement | £115 |
Why Regular Bow Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance helps preserve both the performance and longevity of your bow. Fresh horsehair improves grip and sound production, while replacing worn leather thumb grips, lapping and damaged tip plates ensures the bow remains comfortable, balanced and reliable for everyday playing.
Important Information
Bow services are provided in collaboration with Carla Jones. Bows can be delivered to the workshop in person or securely posted from anywhere in the UK for rehairing and the services listed above. Please note that postage and return shipping costs are not included in the guide prices. Every bow is individually assessed before work begins, and a quotation will always be provided for any additional repairs not listed above.
Guidance on securely packaging and posting your bow can be provided on request.
Ready to Book an Assessment?
Whether your instrument requires a simple repair, extensive restoration or professional bow maintenance, every service begins with an individual assessment. If you’re unsure what your instrument or bow needs, I’d be happy to discuss the options and recommend the most appropriate course of action.