Clear coating a bass body

[Bassmonkey]

Hi all. I’ve just had a jazz body painted by a local artist. Looks ace but is unvarnished. I’ve never dared try my hand at painting or varnishing/clear coating. Any advice? Inc recommendations on product? Is it worth attempting or might it be best to try find a professional to tackle it?  Thx. Andy 

[Japhet]

The first thing you need to know is what type of paint was used to do the art work. Put the wrong type of clear coat over the top of it and it could react badly and ruin the whole job.

[Bassmonkey]

Thx. Good point. No idea. I’ll ask the question. 

[PaulThePlug]

Pic Please?

[Bassmonkey]

Apparently it’s a water based paint. Any suggestions? Pics soon I promise. Some of you will appreciate it, others perhaps not 😄

[three]

I'd have a word with Bow Finishers just South of London.  Fantastically high quality work and they spray for some of the big name UK custom luthiers.  They can spray in a variety of media and will know what to use.  Prices are very reasonable for the quality.  Good luck and it would be great to see the body both pre and post clear-coat. 

[Bassmonkey]

Thanks Three. I’ll have a look. 

[Japhet]

What you really have to look out for is spraying over synthetic/oil based paints. 2K clear coat (or 1K) should be fine over water based as long as it's all properly cured.

[Bassmonkey]

Thanks for the advice all. Merry Xmas 

[Bassmonkey]

Had it done at a local auto body shop. 5 coats. Absolute bargain price. A fab job. Won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but it’s been in bits for a couple of years as I was getting around to getting it painted after getting it in a trade. The body was painted by Burley Banksy who has been painting murals and street art in the city for the past few years. Hope you approve