Instructions
ok, here's the instructions of exactly what i did. First, take off the strings, nut, saddle-nut, tuners. Second, get the existing finish off using 60 grit sandpaper to get it started then get down the 100 or 120 grit as you get closer to the actual bare wood. The last thing you want is gouge marks on the wood you plan to coat because the grit was too hefty. Sand in a tight circular motion. Careful not to round out edges or corners too heavily. Be patient, the finish will come off, but not easily, take your time (sand outside or in the garage, this step makes a lot of dust). Third, get a quart of Minwax Polycrylic clear gloss polyurethane finish ($15 @ home depot paint department, has an aqua colored label). Using a Purdy 1.5 inch fine bristle brush (also @ home depot $8, this is the best brush you can buy, I've painted for years) dip lightly into the finish and spread evenly and deliberately, don't use too much per coat you don't want drips...and this stuff DOES drip. It's best to get a wire coat hanger and go to the basement, straighten the hanger and bend the ends back, loop one end through one of the tuner holes and hang the other end on a nail from a floor beam or joist. This setup will allow you to walk all the way around your uke without touching it with your hands and only the brush. Remember to coat lightly! My uke took 5 coats. Wait a day between coats. This is not a weekend project, it's a WEEK project. The sanding takes the most time and effort. The refinishing requires a lot of waiting. Good Luck! I want to see some pictures, people!
