Refinishing Acoustic Spruse Top

[mandosonthemarsh]

Ok..Here is another amateur refinishing question. I know you guys are going to say stop, and run for the hills, but I am determined to see where this goes. I am currently working on a inexpensive (won't care if it turns out a disaster...) guitar. I need some sanding tips to get the finish off, and if there is a way of treating and protecting the wood without embarking on that toxic spraying process.Also how far into the wood is the decaling around the soundhole. Will I need to replace it. All honest and helpfull replies appreciated.

[Mender]

A flat scraper may be the easiest way to remove the finish, followed by very gentle sanding with 400/600 grit paper, sanding with the grain. Then you will be able to tell what the rosette is actually made of. If you are very lucky, it may be a proper inlay, in which case you shouldn't need to remove it. If it is a sticker, then naptha or something similar should help to remove it without too much difficulty.

You could try an oil finish if you don't want to mess around with toxic fumes

[Geo]

A word to the wise... if you oil-finish it, you may want to seal the spruce with shellac first. I was advised to do that when I tru-oiled an acoustic build, because the top will (allegedly) soak up the finish and get too heavy respond well to the strings.

Of course, if it's a plywood guitar, it may not make much difference.