adding my own "decal" to the body.

[Volitions Advocate]

Hypothetical situation.

Lets say I ordered a Z-body w/ a flame top.  I dont want to do the dye finish myself because I'm not really experienced, but I want to put a graphic on the forearem, either by painting it or by using a nice high resolution decal.
Then sealing it all up with Laquer.

Do you think the guys at warmoth would dye it but leave the gloss finish for me to do?  Does this even sound like a good idea? or should I try to do the dye finish myself?

 

[mayfly]

I'd just put the decal over the gloss and then shoot over that.  Works fine for smaller decals (i.e. headstock), should be ok for larger.  BTW, how much larger are we talking about anyway?

Be careful to use a sealer that does not dissolve the decal.

 

[Keyser Soze]

Explain to them that you want to apply your own decal and see of they have a specific product they recommend as compatible with their finish.

If they can't name one then ask them to send you a piece of scrap wood shot with their final finish along with your finished items.  That way you can test some products for compatibility.

 

[Volitions Advocate]

good plan.

this is what the decal would look like. without the sillhouette.
placed rather sizeably where the forearm contour would usually be. (maybe roughtly 5 x5 or 6 x 6 inches?)
it would be a guitar for my wife.