The Best Oil Finish to Use for Guitar Necks

Newly oiled necks are susceptible to warping and twisting when exposed to moisture.

Most modern day acoustic and electric guitar manufacturers paint necks on their finished guitars with varnish or oil-based finishes. For the do-it-yourselfer or customizer, there are primarily two schools of thought to consider when putting a new finish on the neck of a guitar. The options may be determined by the size and surroundings of your work space, as using spray lacquer paint should only be done in a well-ventilated area.

Wiping Varnish

While not marketed under the term "wiping varnish," a diluted form of oil wood finishes known as low gloss tung oil is readily available at most major hardware stores. The varnish is relatively the same consistency as whole cow's milk, making it easy to spread along the guitar's neck using a rag or brush.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer

Used by many prominent guitar manufacturers, nitrocellulose lacquer bonds quickly with both maple and rosewood, the two grains of wood most often used for modern guitar necks. As opposed to wiping varnish, oil-based nitrocellulose lacquer is widely available in spray bottles.

References

• Finishing Using Wiping Varnish
• Reranch: Fender Neck Refinishing

Resources

• Luna Guitar Neck Painting Stages