JD Kustom strives on a daily basis to offer the highest quality of craftsmanship and technical support to the customer at all times. It is JD Kustom’s priority to make sure that the customer feels 100% confident and satisfied when booking in his/her instrument and leaving it in the capable hands of a professional repair department. 
At JD Kustom, our vision is to set the standard for excellence in musical instrument repair and craftsmanship. Driven by passion, skill, and innovation, we strive to support musicians and music lovers by providing exceptional service and quality across our luthiery and electronics divisions. With a commitment to precision and artistry, we aim to be the trusted destination for musicians seeking to elevate their sound and preserve the life of their instruments.
JD Kustom is a fully equipped luthiery workshop that specializes in providing professional advice, repairs, maintenance, custom modifications and refinishing of stringed instruments to professional and aspiring musicians.
JD Kustom strives on a daily basis to offer the highest quality of craftsmanship and technical support to the customer at all times. JD believes that the after service plays a vital role to the overall satisfaction of a customer and his/her purchase of an instrument. It is JD Kustom’s priority to make sure that the customer feels 100% confident and satisfied when booking in his/her instrument and leaving it in the capable hands of a professional repair department.
Our guitar and electronic teams are fully experienced in providing professional advice, repairs, maintenance, custom modifications and refinishing of stringed instruments to professional and aspiring musicians.
JD launched JD Kustom Workshop at Marshall Music Woodmead, South Africa’s largest musical instrument store in 2009. Now, with branches inside Bothners Music in West Rand and Cape Town, JD Kustom works alongside industry giants. With JD’s Gold Accreditation from Taylor Guitars and a highly skilled team, we’re trusted by top brands and artists, establishing JD Kustom as Africa’s premier repair facility.
After completing his apprenticeship with the legendary Andy McGibbon, JD founded JD Kustom Workshop at Marshall Music Woodmead—the largest musical instrument store in South Africa. This step marked the beginning of his ambitious journey to redefine luthiery standards in the country. Driven by passion and a commitment to excellence, JD carefully assembled a team of skilled luthiers and electronic engineers, transforming his vision into a reality where every detail of the workshop reflects their craftsmanship.
Today, JD Kustom operates across three branches—within Marshall Music in Woodmead and Bothners Music in West Rand and Cape Town—allowing the team to tackle the most intricate projects with ease. Trusted collaborations with top brands and renowned artists have solidified JD Kustom’s reputation as an industry leader.
JD’s pursuit of expertise has led him to California, where he earned Taylor Guitars’ prestigious Gold Accreditation, and later to Amsterdam for further training at Taylor’s repair center. His commitment to innovation and quality has made JD Kustom the top musical instrument repair facility in Africa, serving a discerning clientele and setting the standard in luthiery across the continent.
Christo, with his degree in Electronics Engineering, played a key role in building JD Kustom’s electronics department alongside JD. His attention to detail and leadership has earned the team a stellar reputation for stage audio maintenance. Trusted by top industry brands and agencies, Christo’s expertise continues to elevate JD Kustom’s standing as a leader in the field.
Armed with a degree in Electronics Engineering, Christo joined JD Kustom Workshop with the task of establishing the electronics department. Working closely with JD, he brought his expertise and meticulous attention to detail, assembling a team of skilled technicians who would set the standard for excellence in stage audio maintenance. Under his leadership, the department quickly gained a reputation for being among the best, offering top-tier service and precision.
Christo’s commitment to excellence has led to fruitful collaborations with some of the most prestigious brands in the music industry. His exceptional service and dedication have fostered lasting relationships with major agencies and repair facilities across South Africa, making JD Kustom the go-to destination for high-quality repairs.
Christo’s knowledge of electronics engineering and his relentless pursuit of perfection continue to drive JD Kustom forward. His invaluable contributions have been crucial in establishing the brand as a leader in the music repair industry, consistently delivering outstanding service and results for a discerning clientele.
Edwin, JD Kustom’s Head Luthier, leads our team with unmatched skill and dedication, ensuring the highest quality in guitar repair and restoration.
Driven by an unyielding desire for growth, Edwin rose to the position of Head Luthier at JD Kustom, where his leadership and deep understanding of the craft have been pivotal in shaping the company’s success. His commitment to mastering the art of luthiery led him to pursue specialized training at the prestigious Taylor Guitars facility in Amsterdam, where he earned the esteemed Gold Accreditation—demonstrating his exceptional skills and dedication to the craft.
Edwin plays a hands-on role in every aspect of the JD Kustom production line. Whether it’s performing essential maintenance, executing intricate structural repairs, or perfecting cosmetic enhancements, his extensive expertise ensures each project is completed to the highest standard. His multifaceted contributions highlight his unwavering commitment to delivering flawless craftsmanship and outstanding customer satisfaction.
As the Head Luthier at JD Kustom, Edwin Carr’s passion for luthiery and his exceptional skill set continue to drive the workshop’s reputation for excellence, solidifying JD Kustom’s standing as a leader in the musical instrument repair industry.
We’re thrilled to welcome Sean to the JD Kustom Workshop team! With 15 years of expertise from Ellies Electronics, he’s set to make a big impact on our workflow and organization.
We’re thrilled to welcome Sean to the JD Kustom Workshop team! With 15 years of experience from Ellies Electronics, Sean brings an impressive depth of knowledge in workflow and organization. He’s already making a difference in streamlining our processes and energizing our team. Welcoming Sean feels like bringing on an old friend, as we had the pleasure of working with him through Ellies before. His skills and passion are sure to drive JD Kustom’s mission forward, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him with us!
Mando, a master luthier at JD Kustom, brings decades of experience in guitar repair, serving top South African artists and maintaining the highest standards in the craft.
Mando’s journey into the world of guitar repair and luthiery began with an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. In 1996, he embarked on a transformative path at the prestigious McGibbon workshop, immersing himself in the craft of guitar repair and restoration. His meticulous attention to detail and exceptional skills led him to rise quickly to the role of head technician, where he took on the responsibility of repairing guitars for renowned artists such as Dan Patlanski, Johnny Fourie, Concord, Victor Mosondo, Johnny Clegg, and many others.
In 2009, Mando transitioned to Music Connection, where he continued to dedicate himself to servicing local musicians, ensuring their guitars and basses received the finest care. As his reputation for exceptional craftsmanship spread, musicians sought out Mando’s expertise, solidifying his place alongside some of the finest luthiers in the industry, including JD Kustom, Jedd, Fouche, and others.
With decades of experience and unmatched technical prowess, Mando was invited to join the esteemed JD Kustom team, where his expertise continues to shape the future of guitar repair and restoration. We take immense pride in having Mando as a cherished member of the JD Kustom family, bringing unparalleled skill and dedication to every project.
Devon is a guitar technician at JD Kustom who brings his passion for luthiery and technical precision to our Cape Town and Johannesburg branches.
Devon’s love for guitars began at 13, sparking a lifelong curiosity about their design and repair. This passion led him to JD Kustom, where he began as an apprentice luthier and quickly grew into a skilled technician.
Now a full-fledged member of the team, Devon travels between our Johannesburg and Cape Town branches, bringing his expertise in guitar repair and maintenance to musicians across South Africa. His commitment to precision and quality ensures every instrument he works on is performance-ready.
Mikhail is a skilled guitar technician at JD Kustom, combining technical expertise with a passion for luthiery. He plays a vital role in maintaining and repairing guitars to the highest standards.
After working in a corporate career, Mikhail chose to follow his passion for luthiery and joined JD Kustom to refine his skills in guitar repair and maintenance. With a deep understanding of craftsmanship and relentless attention to detail, Mikhail has grown into a trusted technician whose work consistently exceeds expectations.
Now splitting his time between our Johannesburg and Cape Town branches, Mikhail’s dedication to his craft ensures that every instrument he handles receives the meticulous care JD Kustom is renowned for.
Jasmin is our apprentice luthier at JD Kustom, specializing in guitar repair and maintenance. Her dedication to learning and precision ensures every instrument she works on meets the highest standards.
Jasmine joined JD Kustom with a strong passion for craftsmanship and a desire to master guitar repair and maintenance. Under the mentorship of our skilled team, Jasmine is honing her luthiery skills, from basic setups to complex structural repairs. Her meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving make her a valued team member.
As she grows in her craft, Jasmine’s commitment to excellence ensures every guitar she handles reflects JD Kustom’s promise of top-tier service, preserving the music for generations to come.
In 2021, Francis embarked on an exciting chapter of his career as he joined the esteemed ranks of JD Kustom. Prior to this, Francis had honed his skills and gained invaluable experience through his tenure at the renowned TOMS repair facility, where his expertise in electronics repair flourished. With his exceptional talents, Francis swiftly became Christo's trusted right-hand and an integral component of JD Kustom's esteemed electronics division.
Within the electronics division, Francis’s prowess knows no bounds. Armed with an extensive repertoire of technical knowledge, he possesses an unrivaled ability to resurrect even the most seemingly irreparable electronic devices. Francis’s expertise extends to a comprehensive understanding of all major brands of professional stage audio equipment, making him a formidable force in the industry.
As Francis’s career unfurls at JD Kustom, we eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and development within the organization. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his profound knowledge and unmatched skill set, make him an invaluable asset to the company. With Francis’s unwavering commitment and passion, there is no doubt that he will leave an indelible mark on JD Kustom, propelling the brand to even greater heights of success.
Katekile's inherent passion for mixing and mastering sparked his profound interest in the technical aspects of the music industry. Eager to pursue his ambitions, he embarked on a transformative journey in 2022 by joining the esteemed ranks of JD Kustom, commencing his apprenticeship in electronic engineering.
As Katekile’s apprenticeship unfolded, his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to excellence quickly caught the attention of the JD Kustom team. Today, he stands as a pivotal and cherished member of the organization, contributing his expertise and passion to every endeavor.
With a bright future ahead, Katekile embodies the spirit of ambition and continuous growth. His dedication to mastering the intricacies of electronic engineering and his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results position him as an invaluable asset to JD Kustom. As he continues to refine his skills and expand his knowledge, there is no doubt that Katekile will leave an indelible mark on the team and the music industry as a whole. His promising trajectory foreshadows a future brimming with success and innovation, solidifying his place within the JD Kustom family.
Meet Ashleigh, a talented electronics apprentice at JD Kustom who has also excelled in managing our online presence. As he transitions out of social media, Ashleigh continues to focus on his growing expertise in electronics, making valuable contributions to the workshop.
Ashleigh joined JD Kustom with a passion for electronics and an eagerness to learn. His quick thinking and technical aptitude quickly made him a key part of our team, working on everything from intricate stage audio systems to vital repairs. In addition, Ashleigh took charge of JD Kustom’s online presence, managing our social media platforms with skill and dedication.
Now transitioning out of social media to focus fully on electronics, Ashleigh’s contributions remain vital to our success. His blend of technical expertise and creativity ensures he plays a central role in maintaining JD Kustom’s reputation for excellence in the repair and maintenance world.
Our guitar and electronic teams are fully experienced in providing professional advice, repairs, maintenance, custom modifications and refinishing of stringed instruments to professional and aspiring musicians.
Joaquim D'Almeida, professionally known as JD, embarked on his illustrious journey in the field of luthiery back in 2006, when he joined Andy McGibbon’s Guitar word to undertake an intensive apprenticeship program that spanned three years, culminating in 2009.
Upon the completion of his apprenticeship, JD took a momentous step forward by establishing his own brand, JD Kustom, at the esteemed Marshall Music Woodmead. This marked the inception of an extraordinary venture that would shape the trajectory of his career.
Through unwavering dedication and an unwavering commitment to excellence, JD has amassed an impressive array of tools and meticulously assembled a team comprising skilled luthiers and accomplished electronic engineers. With the fortification of two cutting-edge facilities situated in Woodmead and the West Rand, JD Kustom now possesses the capability to tackle even the most intricate and demanding projects with unparalleled proficiency. Notably, the brand has forged collaborations with renowned industry brands and esteemed artists, solidifying its reputation as a trusted and sought-after entity.
Fuelled by an unquenchable passion for his craft, JD has consistently pursued avenues for personal growth and skill enhancement. In his pursuit of excellence, he embarked on a transformative journey to the Taylor Guitar Factory in California, where he attained the esteemed Gold Accreditation, attesting to his exceptional expertise and mastery. Undeterred by previous achievements, JD undertook another transformative endeavor, delving deeper into the art of luthiery at the Taylor Guitar repair center in Amsterdam, further refining his craft and specialization.
As a testament to JD’s unwavering commitment to his craft and relentless pursuit of perfection, JD Kustom has now emerged as the preeminent musical instrument repair facility on the African continent. With an expansive scope and unparalleled expertise, JD Kustom continues to set the industry standard, catering to the diverse needs of a discerning clientele and leaving an indelible mark on the realm of luthiery.
In 2014, an accomplished individual named Christo embarked on a transformative chapter of his career when he joined forces with JD Kustom. Armed with his comprehensive studies and a degree in Electronics Engineering, Christo seamlessly transitioned into his role, assuming the responsibility of establishing the electronics section in collaboration with JD.
With unwavering determination and a meticulous attention to detail, Christo diligently built a team of proficient technicians, fostering an environment that thrived on excellence. Under his expert guidance, the electronics department swiftly garnered a stellar reputation, emerging as a trusted entity renowned for its expertise in all facets of stage audio maintenance.
Throughout his tenure, Christo has had the privilege of collaborating with illustrious brands that define the music industry’s landscape. His dedication to providing impeccable service has resulted in the establishment of enduring relationships with major agencies and repair facilities across South Africa, solidifying JD Kustom’s standing as a preferred destination for discerning clientele.
Christo’s unwavering commitment to his craft, coupled with his profound knowledge of electronics engineering, continues to elevate JD Kustom’s capabilities in the ever-evolving realm of musical instrument repair. His profound contributions have been pivotal in cementing the brand’s reputation as an industry leader, poised to deliver unparalleled excellence in the pursuit of customer satisfaction.
Meet Edwin, JD Kustom's Head Luthier, whose leadership and expertise have driven the company’s success. With a Gold Accreditation from Taylor Guitars’ Amsterdam facility, Edwin’s dedication to excellence shines through in every project. From basic maintenance to complex repairs and cosmetic enhancements, his versatile skill set ensures JD Kustom consistently delivers exceptional craftsmanship.
Driven by an unyielding desire for growth, Edwin rose to the position of Head Luthier at JD Kustom, where his leadership and deep understanding of the craft have been pivotal in shaping the company’s success. His commitment to mastering the art of luthiery led him to pursue specialized training at the prestigious Taylor Guitars facility in Amsterdam, where he earned the esteemed Gold Accreditation—demonstrating his exceptional skills and dedication to the craft.
Edwin plays a hands-on role in every aspect of the JD Kustom production line. Whether it’s performing essential maintenance, executing intricate structural repairs, or perfecting cosmetic enhancements, his extensive expertise ensures each project is completed to the highest standard. His multifaceted contributions highlight his unwavering commitment to delivering flawless craftsmanship and outstanding customer satisfaction.
As the Head Luthier at JD Kustom, Edwin Carr’s passion for luthiery and his exceptional skill set continue to drive the workshop’s reputation for excellence, solidifying JD Kustom’s standing as a leader in the musical instrument repair industry.
We’re thrilled to welcome Sean to the JD Kustom Workshop team! With 15 years of expertise from Ellies Electronics, he’s set to make a big impact on our workflow and organization.
We’re thrilled to welcome Sean to the JD Kustom Workshop team! With 15 years of experience from Ellies Electronics, Sean brings an impressive depth of knowledge in workflow and organization. He’s already making a difference in streamlining our processes and energizing our team. Welcoming Sean feels like bringing on an old friend, as we had the pleasure of working with him through Ellies before. His skills and passion are sure to drive JD Kustom’s mission forward, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him with us!
In 2023, Mando became a part of JD Kustom, marking the beginning of his association with the company. Mando's illustrious musical journey traces back to 1985 when he first unveiled his extraordinary drumming abilities, establishing himself as a vital force in various esteemed cover bands. Throughout an impressive span of 23 years, Mando's unwavering dedication and exceptional musical talents propelled him to the role of bassist for the renowned post-punk band, Machines of Joy.
However, Mando’s insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge drove him to explore a new avenue, leading him into the captivating realm of guitar repair and luthiery. In 1996, he embarked upon a transformative chapter at the esteemed McGibbon workshop, immersing himself in the artistry of guitar craftsmanship. Through meticulous attention to detail and exceptional skills, Mando swiftly ascended to the position of head technician, entrusted with the delicate care and meticulous repair of guitars for esteemed artists such as Dan Patlanski, Johnny Fourie, Concord, Victor Mosondo, Johnny Clegg, and many others.
Having left an indelible mark at McGibbon, Mando embarked on a new phase of his journey in 2009, joining Music Connection. Over the years, he dedicated himself to serving local musicians, ensuring that their guitars and basses received the utmost care and attention. As word of Mando’s exceptional craftsmanship and technical prowess spread, musicians flocked to seek his expertise, gravitating towards premier luthiers like Mando, JD Kustom, Jedd, Fouche, and others who embody the pinnacle of their craft.
With his remarkable talent and unparalleled experience, Mando was selected to join the esteemed ranks of JD Kustom. We take immense pride in having Mando as a cherished member of our esteemed family.
Mikhail is a skilled guitar technician at JD Kustom, combining technical expertise with a passion for luthiery. He plays a vital role in maintaining and repairing guitars to the highest standards.
After working in a corporate career, Mikhail chose to follow his passion for luthiery and joined JD Kustom to refine his skills in guitar repair and maintenance. With a deep understanding of craftsmanship and relentless attention to detail, Mikhail has grown into a trusted technician whose work consistently exceeds expectations.
Now splitting his time between our Johannesburg and Cape Town branches, Mikhail’s dedication to his craft ensures that every instrument he handles receives the meticulous care JD Kustom is renowned for.
Devon is a guitar technician at JD Kustom who brings his passion for luthiery and technical precision to our Cape Town and Johannesburg branches.
Devon’s love for guitars began at 13, sparking a lifelong curiosity about their design and repair. This passion led him to JD Kustom, where he began as an apprentice luthier and quickly grew into a skilled technician.
Now a full-fledged member of the team, Devon travels between our Johannesburg and Cape Town branches, bringing his expertise in guitar repair and maintenance to musicians across South Africa. His commitment to precision and quality ensures every instrument he works on is performance-ready
Jasmine is an apprentice luthier at JD Kustom, specializing in guitar repair and maintenance. Her dedication to learning and precision ensures every instrument she works on meets the highest standards.
Jasmine joined JD Kustom with a strong passion for craftsmanship and a desire to master guitar repair and maintenance. Under the mentorship of our skilled team, Jasmine is honing her luthiery skills, from basic setups to complex structural repairs. Her meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving make her a valued team member.
As she grows in her craft, Jasmine’s commitment to excellence ensures every guitar she handles reflects JD Kustom’s promise of top-tier service, preserving the music for generations to come.
In 2021, Francis embarked on an exciting chapter of his career as he joined the esteemed ranks of JD Kustom. Prior to this, Francis had honed his skills and gained invaluable experience through his tenure at the renowned TOMS repair facility, where his expertise in electronics repair flourished. With his exceptional talents, Francis swiftly became Christo's trusted right-hand and an integral component of JD Kustom's esteemed electronics division.
Within the electronics division, Francis’s prowess knows no bounds. Armed with an extensive repertoire of technical knowledge, he possesses an unrivaled ability to resurrect even the most seemingly irreparable electronic devices. Francis’s expertise extends to a comprehensive understanding of all major brands of professional stage audio equipment, making him a formidable force in the industry.
As Francis’s career unfurls at JD Kustom, we eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and development within the organization. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his profound knowledge and unmatched skill set, make him an invaluable asset to the company. With Francis’s unwavering commitment and passion, there is no doubt that he will leave an indelible mark on JD Kustom, propelling the brand to even greater heights of success.
Katekile's inherent passion for mixing and mastering sparked his profound interest in the technical aspects of the music industry. Eager to pursue his ambitions, he embarked on a transformative journey in 2022 by joining the esteemed ranks of JD Kustom, commencing his apprenticeship in electronic engineering.
As Katekile’s apprenticeship unfolded, his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to excellence quickly caught the attention of the JD Kustom team. Today, he stands as a pivotal and cherished member of the organization, contributing his expertise and passion to every endeavor.
With a bright future ahead, Katekile embodies the spirit of ambition and continuous growth. His dedication to mastering the intricacies of electronic engineering and his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results position him as an invaluable asset to JD Kustom. As he continues to refine his skills and expand his knowledge, there is no doubt that Katekile will leave an indelible mark on the team and the music industry as a whole. His promising trajectory foreshadows a future brimming with success and innovation, solidifying his place within the JD Kustom family.
Meet Ashleigh, a talented electronics apprentice at JD Kustom who has also excelled in managing our online presence. As he transitions out of social media, Ashleigh continues to focus on his growing expertise in electronics, making valuable contributions to the workshop.
Ashleigh joined JD Kustom with a passion for electronics and an eagerness to learn. His quick thinking and technical aptitude quickly made him a key part of our team, working on everything from intricate stage audio systems to vital repairs. In addition, Ashleigh took charge of JD Kustom’s online presence, managing our social media platforms with skill and dedication.
Now transitioning out of social media to focus fully on electronics, Ashleigh’s contributions remain vital to our success. His blend of technical expertise and creativity ensures he plays a central role in maintaining JD Kustom’s reputation for excellence in the repair and maintenance world.
Welcome to our Woodmead facility, our flagship branch, this is where both our Electronic and Luthiery divisions operate at full steam. Take a look at the divided sections where the magic happens.
Our Cape Town branch, is located inside Bothners Plumstead! Here, our skilled team brings JD Kustom’s expertise to the heart of Cape Town. Explore the dedicated sections where both our Electronics and Luthiery divisions work in harmony, making musical magic happen every day.
Welcome to our Westrand Facility, this workshop is fully equipped for Luthiery work and is a great entrance point to book in your electronics in the Westrand area. Our JD Kustom van (the Polar Bear) travels to this facility twice a week to collect and send back your equipment safely from all complex maintenance done in Woodmead.
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