Staining a sealed neck

[HenningBH]

First, sorry if this question has been answered a million times before. I’ve done my share of searching for an answer, but I might not have used the correct phrases.

I’m expecting three necks from Warmoth in a couple of weeks. Two tele necks, modern and maple (one is roasted maple) and a modern maple/ebony strat neck. All unfinished. I’m going to go the tru oil route, but would also like to stain the non roasted necks. Of course the necks have Warmoths own sealer. Will I need to sand it of prior to staining them, and what product would you guys recommend? The tele neck I’m going to stain is for a mid 80’s MIJ Fender Paisley Tele, the roasted tele neck and the strat neck are for a couple of MJT bodies.

 

[AirCap]

If they are sealed from Warmoth.... they have a finish on them. Unfinished means RAW. Would you care to clarify how you ordered them?

 

[HenningBH]

They’re all from Warmoths showcase store. So they need to be sanded?

 

[Logrinn]

As Aircap mentioned, unfinished means that they're raw.
And as for roasted maple you don't need to do anything with it. No finish, no oil, just put it on a body and play it.

I've got several roasted maple necks and play them as they are. I also got a bloodwood neck that was extremely slick when I got it from Warmoth. Also raw. If I had started sanding that one it would have absolutely destroyed it. It would be like sanding a pair of glasses.

But regular maple necks need to have some kind of finish on them. Or oil. But you would most certainly not need to sand such a neck first. It's already sanded from Warmoth prior to shipment.

 

[stratamania]

From Birchwood Casey Tru Oil folks.

FAQ
Q: At what refinishing step do I stain the wood?
A: Always use stain first.
Q: Is the stain water-based?
A: Yes.
Q: Is the stain a dye?
A: No.
Q: How can I control color intensity?
A: Color intensity is easily controlled by adding water. Dilute with water before using to achieve a lighter color; or leave full strength for a darker color. General 50/50 stain and water mix works for most situations. It’s best to test color intensity on a scrap piece of wood.

 

[TonyFlyingSquirrel]

I wonder if the "sealed" reference in the context of this thread is in reference to the "dip" seal that most of the necks get at the W-Shop.

 

[HenningBH]

I wonder if the "sealed" reference in the context of this thread is in reference to the "dip" seal that most of the necks get at the W-Shop.

That is correct, sir.