CLEAR COAT
The clear lacquer topcoat is also available at most hardware stores. If you
have applied a stain coat, it is advisable to select the same brand of clear
lacquer to assure compatibility.
- The clear coat is applied to the body using the same technique as described
for the colour coat. Two or three coats of clear should be adequate.
For best results the body finish should be allowed to harden for one week
before the polish.
Note: Any banding on the guitar must be taped off to prevent overspray from the
finish.
To avoid runs and drips, hold the spray can 6-10 inches from
surface. For best results follow directions on spray can.
Caution: Remember that spray paint is extremely flammable. Do not spray
near open flames, heat or sparks. The area where you spray must be well
ventilated while spraying and until all vapour is gone. Do not smoke! Do not
breathe the vapour and keep doors and windows open during application and
drying.
SHAPING THE HEADSTOCK
The headstock has been left extra long and here is a chance to express your
individuality and to make a guitar that is truly your own.
First, decide on the shape of the headstock that you would like to use
and draw the outline on the top of the headstock.
Using a bandsaw or simple coping saw, cut out the shape of your headstock.
A half round file should be used to level the top edge of the
headstock. Finally, the edge should be sanded smooth with fine 400 grit
sandpaper.
FINAL RUBBING AND POLISHING
After allowing the clear lacquered surfaces to dry and harden for at least one
week, sand lightly with non-loading 400 grit sandpaper (commonly known as
“wet and dry”). During sanding be sure to place a firm material behind the
sandpaper. A large rubber eraser works fine. The eraser is flexible enough to
sand the gradual curves but is stiff enough to prevent the sharper edges (of
the headstock, for example) from being rounded off. Be sure to sand with the
grain of the wood.
- All sanded surfaces should now be a bit dull, indicating that the finish is flat
and level. Now repeat the sanding process with very fine 600 grit sandpaper
using water and a small amount of dishwashing detergent as a lubricant. This
will remove any sanding marks left by the previous step and leave all surfaces
a dull gloss.
- The finish may now be rubbed out using a medium grade automotive
rubbing compound (DuPont White Polishing Compound for example). The
compound should be used sparingly with fairly good pressure at first –– as a
high gloss develops, pressure should be diminished. An extra fine grade of
polishing compound may be used to get that final bit of gloss. If instructions
have been followed you should now have a professional quality finish. You
can protect your work with a light wax –– Guitar Polish is a good choice.
