https://www.boards.ie/ Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:02:37 +0000 en refinish — boards.ie - Now Ye're Talkin' https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2056213479/question-re-headstock-finish-restoration Sat, 19 Mar 2011 20:26:00 +0000 Instruments Matt Bianco 2056213479@/discussions
When I picked it up in the States, the headstock had been butchered with permanent markers and biro as the previous owner had tried to remove the Ibanez decal and draw a Fender logo over it (it didn't work!). I recently set about trying to remove the ink and scratches and picked up a replica decal via Rothko and Frost in the UK. After removing the ink through a few products, baking soda paste eventually did the trick. However, the lacquer has been stripped and there is a small indentation where the lacquer has been removed.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to what is the best way to go about refinishing the area. As you will see from the photo, the maple is left exposed underneath. As the guitar is not the most valuable in terms of € and therefore not warranting a french polisher, I would like to give it a good shot and learn a new skill along the way. There will be a decal covering which may hide any imperfections but the key will be blending it in with the surrounding lacquer.

Any suggestions on products, processes, tips, tricks, tutorials etc would be greatly appreciated!]]>