Violin Forum/Message Board

Fiddledeedee · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 7:23 am Post subject: Scratch Remover?

How well do the products for removing surface scratches work. I've seen them advertised, of course they mention how well they work. But does any one here use it? Does it work as well as they say or is it gimmick?

I have a violin with a few light scratches, just enough to say there a scratch there. You can't notice it unless you hold it just right. But it does bother me seeing it there. I feel as tho I need to rub it off and I'm looking for a safe way to do it. If there is one. Thanks
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Leif Luscombe · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 7:58 am Post subject:

I would say French polish would be the best way to remove superficial varnish scratches.
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Jack H. · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 9:40 am Post subject:

You can either french polish it or use a clear varnish( shelack) to fill in the scratch and then scrape it down when dry and polish.

French polihs might work faster if it is indeed not a deep scratch.

Fiddledeedee · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 10:32 am Post subject:

Thanks for your replys!! I'll look into the French Polish. Very Happy

_________________
She could sing nothing but "Fiddle cum fee
The mouse has married the humble-bee"
by Halliwell

Mat Roop · Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 8:58 pm Post subject:

If you do not have tons of experience with French polish ....ON VIOLINS...don't even think of trying it.... leave it to a reputable luthier!
When I first started I tried it on a old junker and made an absolute mess...thought I had learned and next one turned out just as bad.... never got it right until I took a french polishing course put on by a guitar maker...
Cheers, Mat