Mark Hatcher began playing guitar as an early teen and has a long history of woodworking, from crafting furniture to building cedar strip ocean kayaks. In 2000, these passions merged when he built his first guitar. Since then, he has refined his designs and methods by collaborating with talented craftsmen and master luthiers. Seeing an idea evolve from a concept to a finished instrument is a great source of joy for him. Each guitar is built with careful attention to design, sound, playability, and even scent. His goal is for every Hatcher Guitar to feel like the familiar embrace of an old friend from the very first time it is played.

Few instruments evoke as strong a response from both artist and audience as an acoustic guitar cradled in the arms of a performer. With its resemblance to the human form, people naturally respond to the finest details of a guitar’s size, shape, and voice.

As a professional luthier, Mark Hatcher handcrafts fingerstyle acoustic guitars using master-grade tonewoods and select materials for an international clientele. Each guitar is individually voiced and often features original inlay designs. Fragrant woods are incorporated into the internal structure to enhance the sensory experience. By carefully balancing the natural beauty of different woods with their tonal characteristics, he creates visually striking instruments that are a pleasure to hold, play, and hear.

Mark Hatcher prioritizes environmentally conscious choices in sourcing materials and conducting business practices. Fortunately, the most sustainable options are often those of the highest quality. The woods he selects come from reputable sources and are frequently reclaimed from salvaged lumber or standing dead trees, some aged over 100 years. Additionally, he places an increased emphasis on purchasing and offering renewable domestic woods.

No finish is less invasive to both the environment and the guitar’s sound than French Polish, which he offers as an option for soundboards or entire guitars. Upon completing each instrument, he composts waste wood and purchases carbon offset credits to neutralize the environmental impact of shipping. Every Hatcher Guitar is designed to be not only a work of art but also a responsible and sustainable choice.