Pathfinder 01 - Explorer with upgrades (1st build)

[Lappa]

I finetuned the fret ends with the rolled-up sandpaper method a la Crimson Guitars and now I am satisfied with the result.

[Lappa]

I applied darker tone pore filler to the body,

then I sanded it back to make the grain have more contrast and it turned out like this:


I like the subtle contrast with the neck:


I used water based filler paste and mixed it with a bit of water to thin it and make go into the tiny pores.
Somewhere it worked well, while other places it did not work at all it seems, there are still some of those tiny open pores of ash. Anyway, I decided to put the shellack on it.

My question now: should I apply the shellac separately on the body and the neck or glue them together first and apply the shellack afterwards?

[DarkMark]

No hard and fast rules here for that. I like to give the neck and body at least a couple of coats before attaching. My thinking is that it makes it easier to clean up glue squeeze out. Just keep the neck join free of finishing product.

[Lappa]

Thank you @DarkMark, it does make sense.

Today I prepared the shellac, 300ml alcohol + 70g flakes. I sat down to read about shellac and watch some videos about it, (amazing stuff!) and all the while I was shaking the bottle. After an hour or so, the stuff completely dissolved. [a few very tiny filaments remained only] Much faster than I expected...!

[Lappa]

Initial shellac sealer coat applied.

(note to self: wear a rubber glove from the start next time 🤦*♂️&#128513

[Lappa]

First layer of 2-cut shellac on the back of the body! I am excited!

[Lappa]

...and the front side. Me like!


Question for shellac-experts: how many layers should I apply on the neck?

[wazkelly]

Looking good.
Never used that type of finish so cannot provide any meaningful advice.

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[Lappa]

Second layer!

[dozymuppet]

That is looking very fine, Lappa.

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