"I always loved the mandolin. Then I totally fell in love with it and decided that's what I want to build."
~ Tom Ellis (via the fretboard journal)
Tom Ellis has been building world-class mandolins since the early 1970s, earning praise from legends like Ricky Skaggs and David Grisman for their unmistakable tone and craftsmanship.
Based in Austin, TX, Ellis blends modern CNC precision with old-world handcraft, ensuring consistency while preserving the artistry that gives each instrument its unique voice. With the help of his longtime collaborator Pava Knezevic, every mandolin is meticulously voiced, carved, and finished by hand before landing back on Tom’s bench for final setup.
The result? Instruments celebrated worldwide for their beauty, playability, and rich, expressive sound.
(photo: Fretboard Journal)
Legendary Tone & Recognition
From his earliest builds in the 1970s, Ellis mandolins have been praised by icons like Ricky Skaggs and David Grisman for their rich, balanced voice. That reputation still holds true today - Ellis instruments are known for their depth, clarity, and responsiveness.
Precision Meets Handcraft
Tom combines modern CNC precision for repeatability with traditional hand-voicing, carving, and finishing. This balance ensures every mandolin is consistent in quality while still carrying the individuality and soul of a handcrafted instrument.
A Master’s Final Touch
Every Ellis mandolin returns to Tom’s bench for the final word - setup, inspection, and voicing. With the help of longtime collaborator Pava Knezevic, whose binding and assembly work is revered in its own right, each instrument reflects an unparalleled level of care and artistry.
