Guitar Sealing. To assure a fine finish the wood needs to be properly sealed and filled. Maple and cherry seldom need filling, but sealing is needed on all woods. The top should be sealed first. Use either shellac or a vinyl sealer and follow the directions of the manufacturer. Thin the first coat, and apply the second coat full strength.

The body gets the same treatment. First, seal the wood using a vinyl sealer, following manufacturer's directons. Thin the first coat, and apply the second coat full strength. Allow proper drying time and then scuff. Scotch pads work best. Steel wool (0000) is the next best thing but be sure to get all the metal off the surface. Use a mineral based filler with stain appropriate for the wood being worked mixed in. Use a stiff paint brush and work the filler into the wood and allow to 'flash.' This is when the wet look disappears and becomes dull. Use a lambs wool bonnet and buff the wood. You know things are working when you see little balls of filler rubbing off the wood. After the filler is worked in well, hold the body up against a light and look for a nice smooth reflecting surface. If you don't get a proper fill you will have small dips in the finish when the lacquer cures. You may need to apply two filler coats.

When you have a good fill applied you need to seal the filler. Do not thin this coat of sealer. Let the sealer cure, then scuff and prepare for the lacquer process.

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