First Build- Hofner Beatle Style Bass with Spalted Maple top

[ChrisBrett]

Just received my kit for a Hofner style Beatle bass with a Spalted Maple top. Can't help but notice that there is a slight scratch on the bottom right side. The first thing the manual says is to "not" sand the veneer? I get that the veneer is very thin but this will only be accentuated if left unsanded I would think. Any suggestions are appreciated. Please and thanks in advance! I must say I was quite pleased that even though I am literally on the other side of the planet in Canada it only took 7 days to get delivery on this beautiful bass guitar kit. After hunting from all over America and Canada for similar quality I took a chance and ordered this and other than this minor scratch I am very pleased with the build quality! If this goes well my next project will be a 12 string ES335!