Last night my guitar sang to me for the first time
Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 3:39 pm
Last night I was sanding back the finish on my classical guitar prior to spraying the final coats of Mohawk guitar lacquer. The air compressor kicked on and the guitar started to hum as the top vibrated in response 
The guitar is coming to life!
The finish thickness has really affected the tap volume of the top. After grain filling and four good coats of lacquer, the tap-tone of the top was noticeably reduced. However after sanding back, the volume returned. This has convinced me that I should strive to keep the finish on the top quite thin.
This is my first time spraying “real” lacquer – the good old toxic stuff. I’ve sprayed waterborne lacquer and shellac before. “Real” lacquer is a dream to spray and sand in comparison, other than the smell. I’m amazed that I can spray lacquer on the neck and 1 hour later clamp that neck into my vise and the finish does not mar or imprint.
The guitar is coming to life!The finish thickness has really affected the tap volume of the top. After grain filling and four good coats of lacquer, the tap-tone of the top was noticeably reduced. However after sanding back, the volume returned. This has convinced me that I should strive to keep the finish on the top quite thin.
This is my first time spraying “real” lacquer – the good old toxic stuff. I’ve sprayed waterborne lacquer and shellac before. “Real” lacquer is a dream to spray and sand in comparison, other than the smell. I’m amazed that I can spray lacquer on the neck and 1 hour later clamp that neck into my vise and the finish does not mar or imprint.