Guitar Refinishing in the UK
Give Your Guitar a New Lease of Life
A great guitar doesn't have to stay the same colour forever.
Perhaps you've found the perfect guitar but aren't keen on its finish. Maybe an old favourite has suffered years of wear and damage, or you're building a guitar and want a finish that makes it genuinely your own.
Whatever the reason, professional guitar refinishing can transform the appearance of an instrument and give you the opportunity to create something individual.
At 81 Guitar Works, I offer guitar refinishing from my workshop in Suffolk, with options ranging from classic solid colours to metallic, burst and more unusual finishes.
What is guitar refinishing?
Guitar refinishing involves preparing an instrument's body or neck and applying a new finish. Depending on the condition of the existing finish and the result you're looking for, the job may involve stripping, repairing surface damage, preparing the surface, applying colour and adding a protective clear coat.
The preparation is particularly important. Applying a new finish over a damaged or unsuitable surface won't automatically hide the underlying problems.
Every guitar is different, so the appropriate process depends on the instrument, its current condition and the finish you want.
What finishes are available?
The possibilities depend on the instrument and the requirements of the project.
Classic solid colours
A solid colour can give a guitar a clean, timeless appearance. From traditional shades to bright modern colours, this is a great option for a straightforward transformation.
Sunbursts and metallic finishes
Burst finishes introduce transitions between colours, while metallic finishes add depth and reflect light differently as the guitar moves.
Metal flake and more unusual finishes
If you want something that stands out, sparkle and metal-flake finishes can create a distinctive look. More unusual effects can also be discussed for suitable projects.
Nitrocellulose and modern 2K finishes
Different lacquer systems have different application requirements, characteristics and practical considerations. At 81 Guitar Works, I offer modern 2K finishes as well as nitrocellulose lacquer for projects where a more traditional finish is wanted.
The right option depends on your goals, the instrument and the intended result.
Can I send my guitar body from elsewhere in the UK?
You don't necessarily need to live in Suffolk to discuss a refinishing project.
If you are based elsewhere in the UK, contact me with photographs of your guitar body, details of its current condition and an idea of the finish you want. We can discuss whether the project is suitable, agree the work and arrange the practicalities before anything is sent.
A few good photographs can make the initial conversation much easier.
How much does guitar refinishing cost?
The price depends on the instrument and the work involved. Stripping an existing finish, repairing damage, applying a complex colour or using a specialist effect can all affect the cost.
I publish prices for a selection of finishes on the 81 Guitar Works refinishing page. If your project falls outside those examples, get in touch for a tailored quote.
Start planning your refinish
A guitar's finish is an opportunity to make an instrument feel like your own, whether you're restoring an old favourite or creating a custom build.
If you have a project in mind, send me some photographs and tell me what you'd like to achieve.
Contact 81 Guitar Works to discuss your guitar refinishing project and request a quote.
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