re-fin advice

[Adrian Levi]

Originally Posted by Ken Smith

In my book, if you can see the work, it has flaws. The more you see, the worse the job is. The more in looks like it 'grew' there, the better the job.

The first key to a good finish is the prep work. Finish or varnish will not cover up sanding scratches. It will amplify them. More mistakes are seen after the finish is on and cures than during or before the finishing process. Such is life..

I have noticed that many restorers seem to re finish their basses in darker brown colors ! Can this be to try and hide imperfections ?
Also does antiquing an instrument help hide imperfections ?

What does one do if an old instrument in need of a refin has so many dings on it that it is not possible or even desirable for that matter to fix them ?