First Ever Build - SV1

[Bakersdozen]

I need to do some small tidy up on headstock edge where I took off the tape and wondering what the best approach is. Should I just take to it with a fine grit sandpaper to remove any paint overhang or is there a better way?

Show us a picture if you can.

Also is there any need to tape up the front of the headstock when applying the tru oil on the back and neck? I was going to tape edge of fretboard but wasn’t sure if I shoul do anything else.

Depends on your application technique. Some do, some don't. Have a practice on scrap first to see how it goes on (especially around edges) and you might find you don't have to. I'm always paranoid about leaving a hard edge on the finish when taping up.

[a_novice]

Here are a couple of pics, its just where the tape was removed...most of the top side edge is really clean but the bottom didn't turn out as neat.

[Bakersdozen]

I'd try either some steel wool or a white (super fine) scouring pad. I found white scouring pads at a cleaning supplies shop. Great for knocking things down like flakey paint and bumps in truoil without leaving scratches.

[a_novice]

I've got some 0000 steel wool at hand so maybe i'll give that a go.

[Bakersdozen]

A strong magnet wrapped in a paper towel or rag can help clean up rougue particles of steel wool.

[a_novice]

That's a neat trick.

[a_novice]

ok, managed to to polish up the body with a first pass of meguiars ultimate compound, and the shine is definitely there. However i do notice swirl marks when it catches the light at the right angle...i thought the polishing process would remove any swirl marks?

Maybe i'm not apply correctly, too much compound, or maybe not enough pressure (as doing this by hand) etc....any ideas??

i've added pics of what i used as well as pic of the swirls.

[Sonic Mountain]

You shouldn't be using any pressure, you need to let the polish/pad do the work. Without a buffer it's pretty arm breaking but you just have to persevere.

Did you cut it back with anything else before the Meguiars? You normally have to work up through a few grades of polish to achieve a really glassy finish. So cutting compound, then cut and polish, then a finishing polish and swirl remover.

[a_novice]

I didn’t cut back with anything beforehand. I’m assuming then the ultimate compound isn’t a cutting compound then?? Any suggestions what I should be using? Given I’m doing this by hand is there a possible issue with going through the clear using all those products?

Is it ok to go back to another product now that I’ve been over it already ?

[Bakersdozen]

So cutting compound, then cut and polish, then a finishing polish and swirl remover.

Which one is Meguires ultimate? A finishing compound??