Hi folks,
I may be at risk of a true cardinal sin here, because my question is actually about an acoustic guitar and has nothing to do with banjos. But many rims or resonators of banjos have similar finishes and the people here are very trustworthy, so I just figured I’d post the question here.
My solid top acoustic has a couple of dings I want to DIY repair. I’ve read up on different methods: super glue, clear nail polish, shellac, and I found a product at Stew Mac linked below that seems to have good reviews. My question is, before I start touching these areas up, are there any red flags anyone sees? The blemish on the solid top actually has a little bit of torn, shaven wood, so that’s my biggest concern. The one on the bottom has some exposed wood that will likely soak up stain, although I don’t need these to look perfect. The third blemish seems to just be the lacquer itself.
If anyone has any advice or a good resource for me to read on that would be great. Thanks
stewmac.com/luthier-tools-and-...p-marker/
Photos
You should figure out what finish is on the instrument to make sure that you use something compatible. I believe that the product in your link is nitrocellulose lacquer based.
Rule #1:
It is far easier to make it look worse than it is to make it look better.
At least one of those spots needs repair beyond finish touch-up, and without considerable experience in cosmetic repair and finish touch-up, my advise is to take it to someone who does.
Thanks for the advice on matching the finish type and taking it to a professional. I do have one follow-up question- do you guys think these are just cosmetic, or are they at risk of drying out and cracking more if I don’t fix them? Thanks
The damage is done, for the most part. Mostly, things look stable from what I can see in internet photos on a monitor. It might be a good idea to have a look inside where the top is damaged next to the herringbone purfling. There could be damage to the glue joint between the top and the top lining. Also just a general check-up for internal damage. If anything is damaged inside it should be fixed for overall structural integrity, but probably won't get worse if the guitar is handled properly. The other spots look superficial, but as I said, I am only going on internet photos.
I have used the markers you referred to as a way to blend colors together but not to cover blemishes in the finish. They worked fine for me but I would take John's advice to heart. He has done a lot more finish work than I have.
Thanks again for the advice
A qualified luthier can make those imperfections disappear for about $150
