I've stripped an archtop with VERY CAREFUL use of scrapers, but a fiddle is another and much curvier beast. At least you would need an angle-grinder and several scrapers, the angle-grinder to reshape the scrapers to fit the curves, if you did it.

If the wood in the chips is not going grey, it is possible that the chips are in an overcoat, a shadow coat or something. And before varnishing, ask a luthier for recommendations. Some varnishes are rubbery.




Yes, I do carry my chips in my overcoat, before anyone asks.