Hello! I'll be receiving my thinline Tele kit in the next couple of weeks. Like you this is my first build. As others have mentioned the veneer should not be sanded but should be checked for glue.

I'd suggest discussing the idea of a humbucker in the neck position with Adam. They might be able to do this modification in the factory. Be aware that any modifications will cause your kit to be delayed. I've been waiting about 10 weeks but feel it's entirely worth it to get exactly what I want.

FYI my mods include veneer on the headstock, an ebony fretboard and routed for the hybrid pickguard.