We are a small electric guitar company facing a legal challenge that could reshape the industry. The body design of S style guitars was never copyrighted by Leo Fender, whose only interest was in retaining the headstock shape. For over 70 years, the body has been in the public domain, and companies all over the world have been utilizing it for the better part of a century.

Recently, Fender Musical Instruments won an uncontested default decision in Germany, claiming the S style guitar body design is a protected work of art. This threatens not only our business, but also the future of S style guitars for builders and players across the European Union. However, the demand stated that we stop making and selling S style guitars, period. If successful, it would establish a monopoly, limiting sales and restricting choice for musicians everywhere.

As a small business, we simply cannot afford the legal fees required to defend ourselves against a corporation the size of Fender. We need attorneys in both the US and European Union, and without your support, we would be forced out of business, unable to respond to the demands being made. The outcome of this case could set a precedent, impacting countless other builders and musicians who rely on the freedom to create and play the instruments they love.

We are asking for your help to raise the funds necessary to defend ourselves and stay in business. Your support will help preserve choice for guitar players and prevent Fender from becoming the only option for S style guitars, which could have global consequences for the industry. Please stand with us in protecting creativity, competition, and the future of music.