removal of a pickguard

[samcatluth]

I could post pics but I'm sure you have experience with this one. I removed a pickguard off an old Yamaha acoustic (FG-180) and even doing it with great care a substantial portion of wood came with it in the form of splinters. When I reglued the original pickguard it shows the unevenness of the wood underneath. I can't figure out how to fix this. I have on order a new pickguard. I guess I could glue back as much of the wood as possible but I am concerned that will detract from the sound of the guitar by adding mass to it. Any ideas? thanks. Jeff B

[Tony Done]

I would just fill the damaged areas with some kind of wood filler. I don't think you'll hear any difference in tone, as the change in mass will be small, and it is not in such as acoustically active as, say, the bridge.