fiddle renovation

Subject: fiddle renovation
From: Jellybeam
Date: 07 Oct 01 - 11:49 AM

I'm trying to clean up a fiddle,but cant get rid of the old rosin. Someone told me to use T Cut[for cars] but I think that might be a bit drastic! Has anyone any ideas or experience of this?

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: Bernard
Date: 07 Oct 01 - 12:45 PM

Depends on the finish. If it's polyurethane, then T-Cut will be perfect for the job.

If it's an older (or more expensive) fiddle, with a proper shellac or 'button' varnish, T-Cut will ruin it, as it removes the surface layer. Careful work with warm, soapy water should do the trick. Obviously you don't want to get it wet - just dampen a cloth enough to remove the varnish.

In extreme cases, diluted vinegar (about 2:1) can be used.

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: Jellybeam
Date: 07 Oct 01 - 01:09 PM

Many thanks Bernard,just what I needed to know.The fiddle is old ,about 100years.The rosin is round the bridge and up the fingerboard,also on the bow stick.Ill have a go and see what happens.

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: bigchuck
Date: 07 Oct 01 - 05:48 PM

There are some violin cleaners available that can do a fair job. I've had fair luck with something called "HW Cleaner". Be aware, however, that many old fiddles have had rosin dust build up for years and those will likely have had the dust react with the finish to the extent that it may be impossible to fully remove it without harming the finish.
Sandy

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: Bernard
Date: 09 Oct 01 - 07:40 PM

Bloody 'ell! I've just realised what I wrote - 'enough to remove the varnish'!!

Erm... I meant 'enough to remove the rosin'!!!

Woooooooops!!

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: GUEST,WillieOClock
Date: 09 Oct 01 - 09:57 PM

To keep your fiddle strings sounding well, remove the rosin build-up with an alcohol pad. Be certain not to let the alcohol contact the instrument.

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: DonMeixner
Date: 09 Oct 01 - 10:06 PM

Alcohol is the solvent for Shellac, buttonlac, and some old spirit finshes. If the fiddle is highly waxed as a finish on top of the shellac soapy water will mar the wax finish. Contact a fiddle repair shop for the correct product or pay them to do the job. Of course a Makita Disk grinder with a 24 grit disk will do the job too.

Don

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: Sorcha
Date: 09 Oct 01 - 10:48 PM

Jellybeam, I just did a search on Maestronet (a members only UBB board for violinists) and ALL the relevant info reccomended taking it to a luthier for a thorough cleaning because "rosin is a kissing cousin to varnish" and you could severly damage the finish if you use the wrong thing. Should only cost about $15 USD......don't know what that is in pound sterling.....but surely not a great lot.

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: Max Tone
Date: 10 Oct 01 - 07:48 AM

Hey, Jellybeam,
Why not just leave the rosin on -- it's part of the history and patina of the fiddle.
When browsing old fiddles at instrument auctions -- usually unstrung, so I don't get a chance to hear them -- I'm always led to bid on the ones that are caked with old rosin. Dem's the ones that have been PLAYED!

If experimenting with cleaners, and you're not sure what the original finish is, always go for a hidden spot to try it out -- under the fingerboard, for instance.

Good luck, Rob

Subject: RE: fiddle renovation
From: GUEST,English Jon
Date: 10 Oct 01 - 10:19 AM

Best bet is to exercise extreme caution.

Either a: leave it alone,

or

b: Use a dilute solution of Amylase Enzyme. (I.E. Spit on it and rub it with your finger). This is the method for cleaning instruments favoured by the Victoria and Albert museum.

It will take a while, but you are not likely to cause any damage. Personally, I'd leave it alone.

EJ