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  #1  
Old 10-25-2018, 09:34 PM
BradHall BradHall is offline
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Default Late 1800's Martin parlor repair question.

A friend brought his great grandfathers Martin parlor to our weekly group. He has had it looked at by an expert on Martins who confirmed its heritage. Not a museum piece or even highly collectible, but a nice family heirloom. It is strung up with nylon strings, and sounds great. However, the area where a pick guard would have been warranted is pretty well worn. Not half way through yet. But well on its way. The wood is exposed and fairly dirty. I would like to at least clean it and apply some shellac to the affected area. Maybe get him a removable static pick guard also. I don't have a photo. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
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Old 10-25-2018, 09:37 PM
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fazool fazool is offline
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do not apply shellac.

If this is truly a >100 year old Martin, it is worth taking to a pro.
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Old 10-26-2018, 02:34 AM
mirwa mirwa is offline
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If it’s a player, then yes make a small pickguard to protect it.

It can be easily removed at a later date

Steve
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Old 10-26-2018, 07:09 AM
D. Churchland D. Churchland is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mirwa View Post
If it’s a player, then yes make a small pickguard to protect it.

It can be easily removed at a later date

Steve
I agree with Steve. A little mineral spirits can easily remove it later on if need arise.
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Old 10-26-2018, 09:42 AM
BradHall BradHall is offline
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Yes, it it definitely a player. I'm curious why shellac would not be a good sealer? My goal is to arrest the wear and protect it from further wear. The owner is a very talented musician and restoring it to proper standards would be for him to decide to do.
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Old 10-26-2018, 09:54 PM
charles Tauber charles Tauber is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BradHall View Post
My goal is to arrest the wear and protect it from further wear.
Shellac will not accomplish that. An appropriately sized and placed pick guard will.
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