Top finish question - streaky spruce
 

I'm building an OM size guitar and the spruce top has some uniform but very obvious light bands across the lower bout. I've attached a picture for reference below (i hope you can see it. I'm new to this.) The splotchiness you see on the rest of the top is just reflection and sanding dust as the rest is OK.

I'll be using a nitro finish and would like to even this out a but so it's not so obvious. I could do a sunburst which might take are of it but I'd rather not.

Any hints on a remedy for this from this wise and experienced community would be appreciated.

https://i.imgur.com/T8LSkLK.jpeg

Amber shellac sprayed selectively on the lighter bands, if you must. IMHO, the banding in Sitka spruce is one of its distinguishing features that should be celebrated.

I bought a bunch of tops cheap because of the 'character' in them with the streaking and grain pattern. Not good enough for name brand manufacturers (that is why they were rejects). I see it as the beauty of a living thing that is not 'perfect'. But to each their own. I think the top looks great.

I'm not a builder, just a player. But if I imagine the top in your photo with a normal "natural" finish, I think it would look very nice with an interesting grain pattern.

Thanks for the advice. I see three votes to leave it as-is so that's what I'll do.

Thanks again.

Yes, I'd be more concerned about those socks than that top. LOL. (I actually have some really wild socks too)

My vote is also to let the wood be what it is.

I would wipe it down with lacquer thinner using 0000 steel wool to cause the grain to raise and then once it dries use 600 grit sandpaper to sand down the raised grain...sometimes removes imperfections or spottiness in grains, just my opinion and experience.

Those socks are awesome. I reckon he should try to paint the guitar top as a replica!

a thought
 

OP has discovered why some tops cost twenty bucks and others cost a hundred.

Nothing to do with performance, 100% to do with cosmetics.

We pay for, and can't hear, bling.