Hi all, I guess I should introduce myself first.
I've been a luthier of guitars and basses for the past 7 years, and I'm a fourth generation one at that. But, this is my first venture into mandolins. I had a Johnson A style several years ago, and sold it soon after, but after moving to a new shop inside a music store where they had an Ibanez F style in stock, my interest once again peaked.
I just received a Fullerton Gloucester as my new instrument, and while I love the tone (much better than the Ibanez, and perfectly suited for what I tend to use it for), I'm not happy at all with the finish. While I love the walnut stain and satin finish, it could've been done much better.
So on to my question, has anyone stripped one of these and refinished in a much better quality? I'm thinking a slightly distressed walnut stain and a satin nitro finish. Any advice or input. I'm all for any input, as like I said this is my first venture into the mando world.
Also, I thought about cutting channels into the stock bridge and installing bone for maybe a little more volume.
Thanks all!