Mandolin Finish

[frets1]

I would like the finish on my F5 to look less shiny. Is there anything I can use such as a compound or anything I can do to alter it and give it more of a matt finish? [anything that doesnt cost megabucks] http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

[sunburst]

You could sand, steel wool, or compound away the gloss and make it look like a matt finish, but it will wear shiney.
That means all the places that get touched and handled will gradually go back to gloss.
In order to get a true matt, flat, or satin finish you would have to refinish.

[grsnovi]

I picked up a new matte-finish Collings MF in February. The neck and an area on the top where I rest my pinky have gone quite glossy from playing/handling.

[mandoJeremy]

If you are using a lacquer or urethane clear you can buy a flattening agent it for it. Just be sure it is compatible with what you are using. Dupont used to make one that worked in both clears and I think PPG does also.

[mandoJeremy]

Oops, I didn't fully read the post. If it is on an existing finish, you could have someone that knows what they are doing wet sand it with 1200-2000 grit paper and spray a light coat of flattened clear over it.

[hotpick]

Don't alter the finish if you want it to be worth as much as possible when you sell or trade it. If you're going to keep it till death do you part, then you can consider changing the finish to suit your needs. Maybe you're better off trading the one you have to one more of your liking.