Finishing

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is a catalyzed synthetic polymer finish that forms a hard, high-build protective layer. It cures to a rigid film with excellent abrasion resistance, chemical stability, and environmental sealing. Due to its high solids content and fast curing properties, polyurethane is ideal for players requiring maximum durability in varying humidity and temperature conditions.

Nitrocellulose

Nitrocellulose lacquer is a classic, solvent-based finish that has been used in fine instrument building since the early 20th century. Unlike catalyzed finishes, it cures naturally through solvent evaporation, forming a thin and acoustically transparent layer. Over time, it continues to harden and subtly integrate with the instrument’s wear, enhancing both tone and character. This traditional approach contributes to a custom guitar finish that combines timeless aesthetics with sonic clarity.

Food-Grade Oil Finish

Our food-grade oil finish uses natural oils with non-toxic hardeners. Unlike film finishes, it penetrates directly into the wood grain, giving your guitar a tactile, raw feel while allowing uninhibited acoustic performance. This approach creates a custom guitar finish with a premium, natural appearance that highlights the beauty of the wood and enhances the instrument’s tonal character.

Hi-Gloss (90+ GU)

A high-sheen finish that produces a mirror-like surface, achieved through multi-layer clear coating and fine polishing. Hi-gloss enhances visual depth and color saturation, especially on figured tonewoods. It requires precise leveling and buffing to maintain optical clarity and surface uniformity. While visually striking, hi-gloss is more prone to showing fingerprints and micro-abrasions.

Lo-Gloss (30–60 GU)

Also known as semi-gloss, this finish strikes a balance between reflectivity and subtlety. It provides a softer visual appearance than hi-gloss while retaining some luster. Lo-gloss finishes are often chosen to reduce glare under stage lighting while still showcasing the wood grain. The surface is less polished, resulting in a finer matte texture that still resists minor handling marks.

Satin (10–30 GU)

A low-sheen or matte finish with minimal reflectivity, achieved by using flattening agents in the final coat or by controlled surface abrasion. Satin finishes offer a smooth, non-glossy texture that provides excellent tactile response, particularly on necks, where players value low friction and a "fast" feel. Satin is functionally resistant to smudging and glare but may show polishing over time in contact areas.