Chitarra Pastamaker, Metal and Hardwood Frame

This sturdy 2-sided chitarra pasta maker is handmade by a Pennsylvania artisan since the late 1940's, with hardwood from his grove, anchors from a local forge, and piano wire.

It's a rustic tool, so the wood color and finish may vary, and less than perfect leveling of the frame is to be expected; a kitchen towel underneath helps to keep it steady. With proper care, it will last a lifetime.

Chitarra Pasta Maker Maintenance

Never wash
Keep the chitarra away from water, to keep the steel bolts and wires from rusting, and to keep the wood from warping.
Brush & scrape
Wipe off flour with a pastry brush. Use a plastic scraper to remove any sticking dough.
Oil regularly
Oil from time to time, depending on the humidity in your environment: Wipe wood, wires, and steel nuts and bolts with an oil-dampened cloth. Food-grade mineral oil is preferred.
Store dry
Store in the original box, in a dry place.


The wires cut 3/16" wide strands on one side, and 1/8" wide on the other side.
The center board catches the strands and slides out to remove them.

Cast aluminum anchors and wire guides
Steel wires
Hardwood frame
Fiberboard catch board
19-1/2" x 9-1/4" x 4-1/2" overall
6" x 14-1/2" cutting area