pladams9

Well, I'm not really trying to change its look; I'm happy with that. I just have this belief that smooth things are better than un-smooth things (but obviuosly not sound- or quality-wise) and I might as well work on the neck right now since it's not attached to the body. Thanks again for all the info, you guys!

I have no idea. I have one pad that's been sitting in my craft box for awhile and the package is long gone I believe. As far as I know its just everyday, plain-'ol steel wool. I'm nearly 100% sure that what is coming off is not wood particles of any sort. I got a similar dust from the lacquer on the body when swiped the steel wool across that.

Thanks for the tips! Just as a double check: Do I have to put any kind of finish on the neck after I rub it down with the steel wool? 'Cuz when I do, a small amount of white dust comes off on the wool, making me think that there is something on there already. The lemon oil is only for the fretboard, right?

Well, yes I meant better looks-wise. And to-the-touch-wise. Really all I want is for my neck to look good, and feel smooth, but I don't want to hurt it in the process - seeing how I don't have any experience or fore-knowledge on the subject. I just want to fix it up a little while I'm repainting the body anyway.

Hey! I have recently got it into my head to do some upgrades on my Squier Strat, and I was wondering if anyone could answer some of my questions about this neck and necks in general. First of all, I have the basic black Strat with a rosewood fretboard. (Oh, and keep in mind that I have only a very basic and vague knowledge of the make-up of electric guitars). Now my questions: 1. There are some spots on my neck and head stock that feel like they could do with some sanding. Also, the grain of the fretboard is noticable. A) can I sand these spots down and how would I re-finish this? 2. What kind of finish is on there now? It's not shiny so it's probably a satin finish of some sort. Is the rosewood fretboard stained? i.e. if I sand it, will that stain (color) come off? 3. The fret markers on the side are generally not inlaid/embedded, correct? They're just painted on? Basically, I want to know how to make my neck better than new. Without buying a new one. Is that possible?