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So I've been experimenting a lot lately on finishes. Right now I really like the way Waterlox is really bringing out the color of the wood in the way shown below. These pictures are unstained mahogany and maple. Only 2 wiped coats have been applied. I think I will wipe one more coat and then see how finishing it off with tru-oil will go. I want to be able to level off the top maple and get a gloss, but leave the back and neck alone for a smooth natural wood feel.

BEFORE:


AFTER:

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Barron Wesley Guitars

I have the Waterlox Marine High Gloss which I originally intended to put on top of these first few coats of the Waterlox Original sealer, but since the Gloss formula isn't recommended or designed to be wiped on I thought I would try Tru-oil over the sealer instead since I know it is applied by hand rub and that it can obtain a high gloss. Applying the Waterlox has been very challenging when trying to use even a very good quality brush because of the curves of the guitar. It's great when applying to flat surfaces using a brush, but it really is a beast to apply to a guitar. I found it better to wipe it on and not experience the runs.

Have you ever sanded the Waterlox to get a flat surface? This is something I'm not sure of as the site says not to sand with anything but 4/0 steel wool for example. I'm thinking that any very fine sanding marks won't 'burn' or 'melt' away with the next coats.

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Barron Wesley Guitars