The Big Red Book(s)

I recently received volumes 1-4 of the Big Red Book of American Lutherie. It's a five volume set published by the Guild of American Luthiers and includes (most of) the back issues of American Lutherie from the mid-80s to late-90s.

I'm totally out of my league here; most of this is way over my head. There's a lot to digest and it's totally facinating. This resource is a really impressive compilation that includes discussions of tonewoods, tools, instrument plans, building techniques, and the history and craft of lutherie. It's an incredible resource for luthiers from the novice to master-craftperson, and I really admire the work of the folks who have made this information accessible.