Frequently Asked Questions
What are your regular business hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays. Please note that for weather-related updates or holiday closures, we recommend checking our social media pages.
Where is KC Fret Shop located?
Our shop is located in the heart of historic downtown Merriam at 5826 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS 66203. We are conveniently situated across the highway from IKEA, just outside of downtown Kansas City.
Is there parking available?
Yes. While there is street parking, we also have a dedicated parking lot behind the shop. You can access it via the alley north of the shop located between KC Fret Shop and Nationwide Auto.
What types of instruments do you repair?
While we specialize in fretted instruments—including acoustic and electric guitars, mandolins, banjos, and ukuleles—we also handle unique folk instruments like bazukis. We are able to work on most instruments made of wood with strings and frets. Our repair team has over 75 years of combined expertise and can handle everything from basic setups to complex structural restorations.
Do I need an appointment for a repair estimate?
You are welcome to drop off your instrument anytime during our open business hours for a ticket to be written up. Our lead repairman will then call you upon assessing the instrument with an estimated price for work. If you would prefer a one-on-one consultation, please email us at repairs@kcfretshop.com to
schedule an appointment with one of our luthiers.
How much does a standard guitar setup cost?
Most of our repairs begin with a $75 minimum setup fee. This covers essential maintenance including nut and saddle adjustments, neck relief (truss rod) adjustments, fret polishing, and cleaning/oiling the fingerboard. Full setups typically are $95. For a comprehensive price list, visit our repairs page.
What is the difference in price for a string change?
If you purchase your strings at KC Fret Shop, the labor for a string change is $25.
If you bring in your own strings purchased elsewhere, the labor fee is $35.
What instruments do you offer lessons for?
We offer professional instruction for guitar, banjo, mandolin, and ukulele.
When are lessons held and how much do they cost?
Lessons are currently available on Mondays and Fridays from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The fee is $30.00 per half-hour session. For more details or to check availability, please visit our Lessons Page. Email us at info@kcfretshop.com to get signed up.
What brands do you carry?
KC Fret Shop is the flagship store for the entire line of KRUTZ fretted instruments. We also pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of acoustic and folk instruments. As an extension of KC Strings, we maintain a high standard for every instrument that hits our floor.
Do you buy or trade used gear?
We do buy used gear and accept trades on a case-by-case basis. If you have an instrument you are looking to sell or trade, please bring it by during shop hours so we can evaluate its condition and value.
Do you offer financing or layaway?
Not at this time, but that may be subject to change in the future.
Do you host live music or events?
Absolutely! We are committed to fostering the local music community. We regularly host concerts, jam sessions, and special events. Check our website’s blog or social media for the upcoming band schedule and event calendar. Our monthly jam session occurs in the KC Strings Conservatory every 1st Sunday of the month between 1pm-4pm.
Are you affiliated with KC Strings?
Yes, KC Fret Shop is a proud extension of KC Strings, which has been a staple of the Midwest violin community for over 30 years. While they specialize in orchestral strings, we focus on the "fretted" side of the family.