The Process

The process starts with playing an instrument for yourself. If possible, you’re very welcome to visit the workshop to try a Heppleston double bass. If one isn’t immediately available, I can arrange for you to spend time with one.

If you decide to go ahead, we’ll talk through your requirements in detail. From there, I’ll guide you on the most suitable model, size, materials, and setup.

Once everything is agreed, I’ll provide a full quotation. A one-third deposit secures your place in the build schedule, and we’ll set a start date for your instrument.

Each bass takes around four months to make. During that time, I’ll keep you updated with progress and photos so you can follow the build as it comes together. When it’s finished, we’ll make any final adjustments needed to ensure it feels exactly right for you.

Interest-free finance is available through the Take It Away Scheme. Please enquire for further details. All credit is subject to status and terms.

Heppleston Models

I offer two distinct double bass models, each personally designed and refined over many years. Every instrument is built with a focus on playability, tonal performance, elegance of form, and aesthetic character. Each bass is individually handcrafted and built to order, allowing for a high degree of personalisation. A range of sizes is available to ensure the ideal fit for both player and performance.

L Model
Based on classic London violin-corner pattern double bass designs

N Model
Based on classic Northern English gamba pattern double bass designs

Custom Design & Historical Copies

Alongside the Heppleston models, I offer fully bespoke instruments. Drawing from a library of historic plans and references, I can create faithful interpretations of fine old basses, copies of or your current instruments or collaborate with you to design something entirely individual.

Materials & Craftsmanship

Only carefully selected tonewoods and materials are used in the making of each instrument:

• Front: Italian spruce

• Back: Bosnian maple, English poplar, or Balkan poplar

• Ribs, neck, and scroll: Bosnian maple

• Fingerboard: Ebony (Sonowood available as an alternative)

• Fittings (nut, saddle, tailpiece): Ebony

• Bridge: High-quality maple

• Purfling: Maple and pearwood

• Tuners: Brass, Baker-style

• Varnish: Hand-applied oil varnish, using a personal recipe

• Neck finish: Oil

• Strings: Selected to your preference

• Case: Premium padded soft case

Available Modifications

Each instrument can be tailored in both feel and function:

• String length

• Neck profile and radius

• Fixed or adjustable bridge

• Four- or five-string configuration

• Left-handed setup

• Baroque setup

Optional Additions

Further enhancements can be incorporated to suit both practical and aesthetic preferences:

• C-extension (capo system with full ebony board)

• Ebony side bumpers for edge protection

• Bespoke carvings, including custom scrolls or decorative work

• Decorative purfling, including double purfling and custom inlays

• Rosettes, inlaid beneath the fingerboard

• Position markers in maple

• Pickups, professionally fitted to your requirements

Please get in touch to find out more about commissioning a double bass, or to join the waiting list