body mods on an ST1 for a noob

[dingobass]

Nice tip Bargie

I am so stealing that idea!

[bargeloobs]

Nice tip Bargie

I am so stealing that idea!

Unbelievably handy!! For the record I've never used a brand new 80 grit one, rolled it up and started gnawing wood off.
Mine came off my grinder after sharpening a few hundred cutters so you'll probably find a new one will be extremely bright. Also after they've been used on a grinder (because of the latex backing) they naturally want to curl up, so if you're using a fresh paper you'll have to roll some tape at each end just to keep it tight and prevent it uncurling.
If you get hold of the "Super Grind" ones like in the pic, they're a "Hermes" brand emery made in Germany and the shit will literally last you a lifetime, it's indestructible
They do a 40 grit too (for sharpening combs) and whilst I haven't used one on a guitar I would imagine it would be quite similar to using a rasp, I'll have to try one in the near future and post results.

[maxaxe]

Go for it dude!
Hoeing into the body is great fun & can be really rewarding.
Lightening up heavy Strats makes a lot of sense to me and I concur with all your reasons for doing so.
Should be an excellent first build IMO.