Putting the band
back together

Five and Dime Cigar Box Guitars, founded in 2011 in Portland, Oregon by Eric Darrow, went on hiatus for several years but is now reemerging with a renewed focus on crafting historically inspired, handcrafted instruments. Eric, a woodworking enthusiast and graphic designer, originally saw an opportunity to explore the legacy of cigar box guitars and create a brand that honored American folk music while appealing to modern sensibilities. After a break, he is bringing back the brand with a fresh perspective and commitment to quality.

Driven by a passion for roots music, Eric wanted to highlight the important role these homemade instruments played in shaping genres like blues and folk. His combination of design skills, woodworking, and musical appreciation led him to build a brand that celebrated both craftsmanship and the nostalgic, heritage-rich sound of cigar box guitars. Now, with the company’s reemergence, Five and Dime continues to blend high-quality craftsmanship with a vintage-inspired design.

Today, Five and Dime is offering musicians more than just instruments—it provides a tangible connection to the past, with each guitar serving as a piece of American musical history. As the company reintroduces itself to the market, it is revitalizing the spirit of these unique instruments, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations of musicians.