/ Register

How to clean a natural wood finish

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by Steve S, Mar 10, 2011.

  1. Mar 10, 2011 #1
    Steve S

    Steve S

    Jul 26, 2000
    I just picked up a Birdsong bass that seems to be hand rubbed. How do I clean it or do I just let it age naturally?
     
  2. Mar 10, 2011 #2
    Winemule

    Winemule Guest

    Feb 27, 2005
    from the owner's page at Birdsong (You'll recognize Scott's style!):

    FINISH
    The finish we use is a special oil blend. Please contact for assistance to questions.

    An oil finish will age and show wear. Preventive steps are the key - wash your hands before playing, wipe the instrument down with a soft cloth after. With a hand rubbed oil finish you have traded away a thick plastic sound-deadening permanent lamination of your instrument for a more natural finish that feels better in the hands, allows for better tone, and gives a more organic and natural look to the wood. The oil finish protects against moisture, but hard knocks and scrapes will show, and the finish will take on the patina of something that is being used regularly.

    This, to us, is even more beautiful; you are in a relationship with this instrument, it is NOT an appliance. You will both age, you will both scar. Wear spots may be lightly sanded and boiled linseed oil mixed with clear poly should be applied per instructions on the can. Light grime can be taken off the neck with a gentle rubbing of #0000 or finer steel wool.
     
  3. Mar 10, 2011 #3
    Steve S

    Steve S

    Jul 26, 2000
    Thanks Winemule! This is the first bass that I've ever had with this type of finish. All the rest have had the painted lamination coating. This bass feels very good in my hands.