I'll start by trying to convey my story and circumstances of some work Gail Hester of Hester Mandolins recently completed for me. I will not use anything that I can't back up factually via an email or written correspondence.

I sent her a Gibson Custom F5G to have the back and headstock bound and slight distressing completed as well as having Waverly tuners installed. It was shipped April 9th, 2008 via Overnight Express USPS Mail. She received it April 10th, 2008.This job was supposed to take 3 or 4 weeks, but I didn't receive my mandolin until June 21, 2008, 73 days or almost 10 and a half weeks from the time she received it.

After being 6 to 7 weeks late from the timeframe she was supposed to finish my mandolin, the pictures below will show you what I received. I was in total shock and disbelief. If you are a luthier, ask yourself, would you allow something like this to leave your shop? Also, if you are just a mandolin enthusiast, would you be happy if this was your mandolin? You can leave me your comments and thoughts here by Emailing Me.

CLICK HERE to read comments I've received so far.

When I received my mandolin back from her Saturday, June 21, 2008, here's the email I send to her:

My Email to Gail Hester when I first received my mandolin.

Hester Mandolin's Response to me with offer of remedy.

My response and acceptance to Hester Mandolins offer.

She has since decided not to honor the agreement and I have been left with no alternative but to start legal proceedings against Hester Mandolins for relief in a Court of Law.

Click on the thumbnail to view high resolution photos: