A guitar that has been abandoned in an attic or closet can often be brought back to life with a little patience, a few homemade tools, and a healthy dose of determination. In this article, I'll show you how I restored an old guitar using simple materials that can be found at a hardware store. Follow along to learn how to breathe new life into a forgotten instrument.
Step 1: Remove the strings
The first step is to remove the strings from the guitar, but unexpected obstacles can arise. In my case, some of the end balls were stuck in the holes. If this happens to you, use a thicker string as a pushing tool or a thin, pointed object to dislodge the stuck ball.
Trick
- If the rope is difficult to extract, be careful not to damage the wood around the holes.
Step 2: Preliminary cleaning
Once the strings are removed, clean the guitar thoroughly. This allows you to assess the condition of the frets and fingerboard. In my case, many of the frets were rusty, with deep marks caused by the strings rubbing.
Required Materials
- Dry cloth
- Soft brush for removing dust
Step 3: Repair and polish the frets
Masking the microphones
Before you start working on the frets, mask the pickups to prevent metal filings from getting on them.
Working on the ends of the frets
I used homemade files, made from modified metal files. These tools allow you to work precisely on the edges of the frets without damaging the wood of the fingerboard. Here's how to do it:
- Gently file down any sharp edges.
- Use fine sandpaper (150-200 grit) to round the frets and smooth out any irregularities.
- Make sure to work evenly across all frets to maintain consistency in touch.
Polishing
For polishing, I used a specific product that is applied with a soft cloth. Rub vigorously to obtain a shiny finish.
Result
Once the polishing was complete, the frets were dazzling, ready for further adjustments.
Step 4: Condition the key
Apply a special oil to nourish and protect the fingerboard. This helps restore its shine and prevent possible drying out.
Required Materials
- Touch oil (eg lemon oil)
- Soft cloth
Step 5: Electrical insulation
Inspection under the pickguard
I took apart the pickguard to check the insulation of the cavities. There was only a small piece of aluminum, not enough for good insulation. Here is how I proceeded:
- Use aluminum foil tape (available at hardware stores).
- Line the cavities and the back of the pickguard.
- Make sure all surfaces are connected to ensure optimum electrical conductivity.
If you want a more detailed guide on this technique, refer to my previous video.
Conclusion
With a little patience and simple tools, you can bring a forgotten guitar back to life. By carefully cleaning, polishing, and adjusting each component, you can transform a neglected instrument into a playable piece. If you have any questions or tips of your own, share them in the comments below. And be sure to check out my other videos for even more tips on restoring instruments!