Checking on my Les Paul Standard - I Figured out how to do it

[BobMello]

Hey there,

I decided I wanted to give it a try to have checking on my LP. I had heard about the use of a hair dryer and a can of compressed air. I didn't think it would work but sure enough it did and I can't be happier. I know some aren't into the relic look but I like my guitars to have a worn in look and feel.

I basically used a hair dryer close to the finish to heat it up and then sprayed the air until it was freezing on the finish (you have to angle the can to get that freezing spray to come out). Just cover your mouth and nose and don't breathe it in. It took me about 30 min to do the entire top and the entire top is checked now...lots of long crossing lines...not much spider web except for the arm rest area where it really checked. I couldn't get a clear shot of that area.

I play the crap out of this guitar and the tone is to die for. Of course the signature by Les is the icing on the cake for me. I cherish the axe.

What do you think of the checking? Look natural? It's cool if you don't think so...:salude The checking is very subtle and not noticable unless in the right angle and light

First a shot of the top (can't see anything)

Now the checking...

 

[moonweasel]

Bob,

Looks cool!

Question, did you put clear coat over your Les Paul autograph to protect it? Just curious what people do.

 

[BobMello]

Bob,

Looks cool!

Question, did you put clear coat over your Les Paul autograph to protect it? Just curious what people do.

Thanks Moonweasel! I put a non stick plastic covering called Body Armor. I cut it to size and stuck it on top. It has a static thing going on and goes right on top. It's pretty transparent and doesn't move. I play all the time and the signature is untouched. I love it! :headbange

 

[moonweasel]

Cool, I always wondered how people protect. Can you believe some don't? I have seen some that are faded and unreadable from wear and tear.

 

[Triplet]

Stay away from hair dryers. Too much direct heat, you can do major damage before you know it. It's best to wrap up the git in an electric blanket on high for an hour or two then hit it with the spray can.

EDIT: Work from the headstock down. The thinner parts cool off quicker - obviously...