"Unglossing" a body...

[Gris]

Is it possible/what would be required to un-gloss the body of my natural Ash finish Tele? I have never liked the high gloss look. Thanks gurus!

[telecast]

They make a product called de-glosser. Not sure how it would work on Poly, try it under the pickguard first.

You could also use some #0000 steel wool, but practice first!

[Gris]

Actually, I tried a little 0000 steel wool on a spot on the back a while ago. Looked "scratchy." Thanks for the tip on the "de-glosser." I'll do a test patch on that as well.

[telecast]

Gris, try the steel wool again, but use mineral spirits for a lubricant. It'll give you a completely different look.

Still, I think the deglosser would be preffered. Savogrin makes one too, a pretty common manufacturer in the local home improvement stores.

[Wilko]

no chemicals, or steel wool.

Wetsand it with very fine paper like 1000 grit. 600 will do, but you'll see more swirling. Lots of water and a light touch.

[Don]

Gris-
Head over to The Les Paul Forum and do a search for Scotch Brite.
I think it might give you more subtle results than steel wool.

[Offshore Angler]

That's a big 10-4 on the Scotch Brite.
You can also use rubbing compound but just don't do the final buff.

[Camoradi]

I wouldn't use any of the products listed. The very best stuff to use is a cloth backed abrasive called Micro-Mesh. Use it wet, and start with 2400 grit or/then 3200, then 4000. By the time you get to 4000 you will have a satin body without swirls. 2400 (roughish) grit is also great for flatting the backs of necks.

[Gris]

Where do you find this "micromesh?"

[empty71]

I get mine from here.
http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Finishin...hing_Pads.html

[Gris]

Thanks empty71, when I googled/froogled "micromesh" I got a slew of womens' panties (w/ pics). Not so bad, except that my wife entered the room just then!

I only slipped in deeper when she saw my thread title (unglossing a body...)

[Camoradi]

The Micro Mesh pads that the link goes to are very good and should do the job perfectly. But if you get to like Mirco Mesh for finishing or need to replace a particular grit you can get it in larger non-foam backed sheets (a 12"x6" sheet works out cheaper in the long run) particularly from good wood working/wood turning/cabinet makers type suppliers. It was originally manufactured to repair scratches in real life aircraft canopies where swirl marks are a no-no.

[empty71]

Here's another link to more Micromesh:)

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?p...1&cookietest=1

[Gris]

WOW thanks! the micro-mesh pads (wet sanding) worked great.