SHELLAC/FRENCH POLISH
A French polish finish is a traditional/durable way to protect an instrument and will last many years. But like all finishes itâs prone to certain weakness. Out of the box a hand rubbed finish will not appear like a store bought instrument, instead it might have small imperfections, micro-scratches, very small abrasions and perhaps slight unevenness in it’s application. It can take a months for a French polish to fully harden so particular care needs to be taken in it’s initial usage.
Also because of it’s more delicate nature itâs normal for a french polish to take on small scratches and to dull in some areas and shiny in other areas with use. A quick repolishing, by a local luthiery can remove scratches and bring the shiny finish back.Â
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Also alcohol, some skin lotions, hand sanitizers and other chemical solutions that come in contact with the finish can remove a French polish on contact and these damages are not covered by the warranty. For care, wipe your ukulele/guitar off with a soft cloth to get the sweat and body oil off of it everytime after you play. Donât use any abrasives, strong cleaning products or try to re-polish your finish. Take it to a professional.
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