Ahhh, very interesting. Thanks folks. I'll bring this thread back over the next couple of days 'cause the more info the better.

I'll advise my student simply by giving him a print out of this, but one other question...this one for my OWN edification: What actually happens to a flat finish over the years? Does the instrument turn colour like the regular gloss finish seems to (ignore syntax...it's late)?

Catspaw, can you elaborate on the "paste wax 0000grit" whatever?

Sandy, does automotive rubbing compound come in different grades (or something like that?)

Rich, I know what you mean about not messing with the finer instruments. I once drilled a pickup jack hole in a 00-18, and regretted it.

Tell me a bit about tung oil. Is there a consensus on whether it DOES or doesn't harden. My student is primarily talking about the NECK of his Fender.

One of the things I might do is get a piece of wood..put a flat laquer finish on it and then try EACH method suggested.

Thanks again

Rick