Finishing up micromesh grain & coats (Tru-Oil) on Black Korina body

ztbishop

Newbie
Messages
3
I'm currently doing a tele build (strat is just for reference on what I'm trying to match in terms of finish).
I'm finishing up a tru-oil finish on a Black Korina body / Roasted Maple neck. I've done 6 coats so far, with the neck thinned 40% mineral spirits after the initial coat. (Body is straight tru-oil). This is my first Warmoth Build (2nd build overall). I included my first build (strat type) which is about the sheen I'm going for; the strat is pine. I used a blow torch and tru-oil. I feel like the strat took 30+ coats because I didn't know what I was doing and wet sanded with mineral oil too often, washing away much of the finish in between coats.
I don't plan to go mirror finish, more of a satin similar to the strat (easier to maintain anyway). After 6 coats, I think the body is looking good so far, other than the grain not being filled. I don't really want to do 30+ coats to fill it in if it isn't necessary. I'm looking for some advice on the following ideas.
1. Use some micromesh now, and possibly a few more coats of thinned down tru-oil with mineral spirits.
-or-
2. Keep going on the body to fill in the grain

When I use the micromesh, should I go dry if I'm using 12-30,000 grit (especially on the neck) Or use mineral spirits for lube after a couple days of dry time?
For the body, I'm hoping a buff will take care of some of the glare in the grains (they tend to sparkle a bit since they aren't filled in) - but it's not a huge deal; only if the light hits just right. I didn't really want to do a mirror finish due to a.) too much work, and b.) I don't want scratches to stand out.
If you open the T_Body image, you will see what I mean when I have the light reflect on the grain... I'm not sure if micromesh would really help since it'll just buff the smooth outer body.

I'm thinking I could wrap it up over the next week and give it a couple weeks to cure.
 

Attachments

  • T_Guitars.jpg
    T_Guitars.jpg
    440.2 KB · Views: 20
  • T_Body.jpg
    T_Body.jpg
    354 KB · Views: 20
  • T_Neck.jpg
    T_Neck.jpg
    142.4 KB · Views: 19
Back
Top