wow 22 coats, but as you say, you have rubbed a fair bit off. Is the 000 steel wool much harsher than 0000 super fine ? Think the cream pup covers will look good, could be worth posting a pic of cream and black and the forum will have a vote.
Its always a pleasure to follow your build diaries Rob, you always end up with a beautiful axe and love some of the mod ideas you do. I can't wait to start a tele build with a veneer and reverse the control cavity.
Keep up the good work mate !