Painting a guitar

[JensCambre]

I'm painting a bass of mine and would like to know if it is necessary to put a transparant finish over it. And if so, what can i use best?

i don't mind the paint wairing off a bit. I like having the look a little "relicish".

 

[Joe Milo]

It is not necessary to clear coat your color paint. If you are looking for your bass to develop the relic look the clear coat will only make you wait longer. The bass would have to wear thru the clear coat then thru the color coat to develop the relic look.

If you are looking for a paint for this style I would use a lacquer based paint for this style. Google the different paint companies looking for guitar lacquer.

Reranch.com is a wealth of info for refinishing guitar and basses and also carries all the supplies needed.

Stu Mac
Gracey's paints

 

[M.R. Ogle]

Yes, good advice.

Also, although the color choices are limited, don't rule out automotive touch-up paints like Dupli-Color lacquers. They come in spray cans, and it's pretty good quality paint.

The majority of any refinishing project is just waiting, sanding, and buffing.

 

[dukeandrews]

you don't HAVE to. but, IME your finish will look deeper if you varnish or clear coat over top. especially if you are looking to relic your finish, paint it beautifully, nitro on top, then stick it in the freezer overnight to get some checking, then sand and buff the hell out of it. M.R. Ogle is right, a lot of waiting. The key to a nice refinish (rattle-can or otherwise) is being patient. do not try to rush it.