3.2 Painting the body and neck
The solid wood body of the guitar is sealed and prepared for various types of lacquer
coating. A wide variety of finishes can be procured from DIY, timber and automotive
outlets in aerosol cans making finishing straightforward without requiring specialist
skills.
The first step is to check the fit of the body to the neck joint. These components are
machined from high-grade tonewoods to ensure optimum alignment. Since wood is
a natural material, however, its shape changes slightly over time. If the fit is too tight,
you can adjust it using a sharp chisel or sandpaper. Please remember that the addi-
tional lacquer coat will make the neck fit a little more tightly into the cutout.
Before coating the body, ensure that all surfaces are clean and free of dirt and dust.
Carry out all painting operations in a well-ventilated, dust-free environment. Consid-
ered and careful working are key factors for a qualitatively satisfactory result. We
explicitly recommend that you first try out the colour and technique on another
piece of wood.
Paint the body edges first and let them dry. If the edges are dry, go on with front and
back side. By layered, successive application you can achieve a uniform coating struc-
ture. If you notice surface irregularities, wait until the paint has dried completely and
correct them with fine sandpaper (e.g. 800
+
) before proceeding to paint. For full cov-
erage apply three or more layers.
Insert a wire or hook into the cutout for the guitar neck and hang the painted guitar
body to dry in a dry, dust-free area away from direct sunlight.
Wait another two to three days until the paint is fully cured. Polish or burnish the
body until it meets your expectations. Take care not to buff too vigorously as this
may remove the finish.
The neck of the guitar is sealed at the factory with a thin layer of matt lacquer and is
already ready to use. However, if you would still like to treat the neck with paint or
clear lacquer, follow the instructions below.
Remove the fingerboard and all the frets cleanly before you start painting. Make sure
that all surfaces are free of dust and dirt. Carry out all painting operations in a well-
ventilated, dust-free environment.
Use a clear or lightly coloured wood lacquer of high quality for the neck. Start on the
front and the edges of the headstock. Apply a thin layer evenly, allow it to dry and
repeat this two or three times. If you notice surface irregularities, wait until the paint
has dried completely and correct them with fine sandpaper (e.g. 800
+
) before pro-
ceeding to paint.
Once the headstock has dried, place the neck on the fingerboard and paint the back
of the neck as described.
Wait another two to three days until the paint is fully cured. Polish or burnish the
neck until it meets your expectations. Take care not to buff too vigorously as this may
remove the finish.
Painting the body
Neck finish
Assembly instructions
Bass Guitar Kit J-Style
7