TLA-1F (First Build)

[jsergeant]

I don't have a picture but I have a long dent on the fret board (may have done it myself, though was being very careful), how much sanding if any should be done on the fret board?

[Drummerdude]

Well first of all sorry to see the back pieces glued up like that but at least thy are on the back. The factory doesn't take time to match any pieces they just use every thing they can and glue it. But at this price you can't complain. 2 of my kits had similar issues. As for the veneer unfortunately that is another issue you see with almost every veneered top. As long as the glue between the join line stays hidden you won't notice it too much when finished my quilted tele had the same issue.
Now to the fret board you can sand it but depending how deep it is it may be difficult to get out completely. Make sure to mask off the frets before sanding or you will discolor the maple board and it will look bad. And try to sand with the grain which is tedious but will give better results.. but the top looks good and nice contouring on the head stock.

[jsergeant]

Cheers for the tips Drummerdude

[jsergeant]

I'm considering my options re: neck pickup mounting without the scratch plate. I wonder if anyone has come across something similar to this but suitably large enough to cover the (overlarge) neck pickup cavity?
http://www.guitarfetish.com/Telecast...ng_p_1525.html

[Drummerdude]

Well sergeant I was planning on the same thing and the only option is to have a custom ring made. I used a humbucker pickup that fits the opening well but since it is rectangular you cannot use a standard humbucker trim ring like the les Paul's use because they screw down on each corner and the screws won't be over the top of body. You can have a larger one made or make one yourself. Another option I considered was a clear acrylic pickguard and then you can paint with a coordinating color on back side around pickup to cover the excess opening. Check out paisley tele pics and you will see..

Just a couple of thoughts hope it helps.

[dave.king1]

Make a bikini scratch plate out of the one that comes with the kit

[jsergeant]

Thanks for the suggestions guys. Reshaping the scratch plate is my current backup plan but was kinda hoping for something in chrome. Even better, something in chrome and engraved. I'd make one myself but wouldn't know where to start. Having a stab at woodwork is one thing, fancy metal work is definitely beyond my abilities (and resources).

[dave.king1]

Thanks for the suggestions guys. Reshaping the scratch plate is my current backup plan but was kinda hoping for something in chrome. Even better, something in chrome and engraved. I'd make one myself but wouldn't know where to start. Having a stab at woodwork is one thing, fancy metal work is definitely beyond my abilities (and resources).

The metal plate shouldn't be all that difficult, your local engraver should be able to etch from a .jpg so design something on the PC and go and ask the question.

I've had custom car stuff done and the principle doesn't change

My guy was the local Speedy Keys franchise

[jsergeant]

Thanks Dave. Will suss it out

[jsergeant]

A few questions:

I'm probably not staining the back or sides however want to apply a darker grain fill. To what level of paper should I sand? I've done 180 and 240 so far.

Should sanding sealer be applied before grain fill?

What're suitable types/brands for sanding seal and grain fill? Timbermate?