Bare Knuckle Pickups Forum

Forum Ringside => Guitars, Amps and Effects => Topic started by: timski on June 28, 2011, 09:27:48 AM

Title: Lacquer for Tweed Amp?
Post by: timski on June 28, 2011, 09:27:48 AM

Just got me a Tweed Deluxe 5E3 'clone' which isn't lacquered.
Over the pond they seem to use 'Amber Shellac' for this purpose but I'm having difficulty finding a suitable alternative over here.
Anyone here ever lacquered their own tweed?
If so, what did you use?
Am hoping to get as 'vintage-y' a look as possible.

Thanks

Title: Re: Lacquer for Tweed Amp?
Post by: Elliot on June 28, 2011, 10:23:47 AM

Getting amber shellac is difficult - the clear version can be got in the UK here:

http://www.ackosdiydecorative.com/zinsser-bulls-eye-shellac-finish--sealer-868-p.asp

You can also enquire of Zinsser who have a UK office:

http://www.zinsseruk.com/shop/Product.aspx?cId=123&pgId=343&tId=Overview

All I can say is get a practice strip of tweed attached to some mdf to get the right mix of alcohol to shellac before putting it on as you can easily turn you amp into a mess.....(as I did to a tweed guitar case, although after a few years it looked well vintage).

Title: Re: Lacquer for Tweed Amp?
Post by: WezV on June 28, 2011, 01:54:30 PM

tinted lacquer works well and survives better (possibly not what you want for the vintage look)

but shellac is available in a few different shades here, it can also be tinted or mixed to get the tone you want
http://www.axminster.co.uk/page/find/?name=shellac&page=1

Title: Re: Lacquer for Tweed Amp?
Post by: timski on July 27, 2011, 04:42:24 PM

Thanks for the input but I didn't get anywhere with any of those links, nor did I get anywhere with asking elsewhere or contacting UK-based builders of tweed amps so I took a risk and used my virtually non-existent DIY knowledge.
I simply applied one coat of 'Rustin's Satin Pine Varnish' (£6 for a 250ml tin).
Thankfully it paid off and I now have a amp which looks great.
Instant '50s Mojo.
Will post a pic if I get a minute.