The Strad-O-Lin mandolin shown here belonged to my wife’s late grandfather. In pulling it out of a closet to clean it for my FIN (after 25 years), I noticed the poor/damaged varnish or resin that was applied (on the back as shown below).
Normally, you never touch the finish on a vintage instrument (especially violins). Removing varnish (or patinas) from antiques im general or stringed instruments is a huge mistake (as anyone will learn from one episode of Antiques Roadshow.
This said, the finish on this instrument was so poorly applied that I really want to strip it. In fact, I do not see any alternative. First, is stripping the finish a mistake, even given the horribly applied varnish (it might even be resin)?
If not, with my substantial experience with stains, varnishes, and other wood finishing (from years of working on wooden boats), I would be very comfortable stripping the body to bare wood. As such, what finish would be recommended to restore this mandolin? I.E., what finish(es) is most appropriate or historically accurate? Thank you in advance for advice and recommendations.
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