The “Paws and Picks” craze is taking over the guitar world as bassist and engineer Julia of ThreeStools launches 3D-printed, cat-shaped pickguards for Telecasters, Stingrays, and more.
For guitarists who spend as much time browsing cat memes as they do practicing scales, the ultimate crossover has finally arrived. What began as a personal DIY project by Julia, a talented engineer and bassist, has blossomed into a viral sensation.
Now, through her boutique Etsy shop, ThreeStools, musicians can officially transform their instruments into “Telecatsters” with custom, cat-shaped pickguards and accessories.
From Reddit Viral Success to Boutique Brand
The journey of the Telecat Pickguard started with a simple hand-drawn design. After Julia shared her creation on Reddit, the post exploded, with thousands of players demanding to know where they could buy their own.
Responding to the overwhelming demand, Julia launched ThreeStools to bring high-quality, 3D-printed feline flair to the masses. The shop has quickly become a go-to destination for “weird” and wonderful guitar mods that stand out on stage and social media.
Fully Customizable: Your Pet, Your Guitar
What sets ThreeStools apart isn’t just the cat shape—it’s the level of personalization. Beyond the standard models, Julia offers custom Stingray Bass cat pickguards and designs for Jazz Basses.
The shop even offers knobs modeled after customers’ own pets, allowing players to equip their gear with the exact profile of their furry friends.
Engineering Meets Aesthetics
These aren’t just novelty items; they are engineered for durability.
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The Build: The pickguards are 3D-printed as a single piece, meaning the colors won’t scratch off over time.
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The Finish: The standard finish features a unique textured surface that remains perfectly flat for playing.
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Premium Options: For those looking for a mirror-like shine, limited-edition glossy finishes are available at an additional cost, reflecting the extra labor and material required.
Why It’s Trending
In an era where “partscasters” and unique modifications are more popular than ever, the Telecatster offers an affordable way to inject personality into an instrument. For cat owners and lovers of eccentric gear, these designs provide a high-quality, professional alternative to generic aftermarket parts.
Ready to give your guitar a feline makeover? You can browse the whole collection and request custom designs at the ThreeStools Etsy Shop.
Be sure to check out our seasonal for more gift ideas this holiday season The Ultimate Gift Guide for Guitarists: Perfect Stocking Fillers and Presents
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