Anyone know how to 'de-gloss' polyurethane?

[notCardio]

I don't mean remove it, just de-gloss it? I just got a guitar from Rondo that looked to me on the website like it was sort of a satin finish, and it turns out to have a poly finish that's thicker than anything I've ever seen. But if I could just de-gloss it a little, I might be able to live with it. Anybody?

[Snive]

Steel Wool

[David Katauskas]

2000 grit will give you a good dull finish without scratching it...you'll need several sheets.

1) since you won't be wet sanding, the paper will clog very easily
2) once the paper stops 'biting', stop using it

It will also leave a finish that can again be buffed out to a gloss if you choose.

[andyhix]

usually the really hi grit # sandpaper is easiest to find at an auto parts store, rather than a hardware store, if you choose to go that route. You should be able to find upto 2000. Or you could use #0000 steel wool, with a really soft touch.

My suggestion is to just give it some time. It might grow on ya. When I got my guitar, the hardcase that GC had for it had a hot pink fuzzy inside. I was bummed, but have since learned to love it. I know a case is different and less important than the guitar itself, but who knows. you may end up having fun with the fact that you can blind people in the front row by reflecting stage lights at them.

[notCardio]

but have any of you actually tried this?

Andyhix - If I ever play in front of people again, I doubt I'll be playing a $140 guitar that looks like it came from Wal-Mart. This thing doesn't just have a high gloss finish, it's like it's encased in plastic. But you're right. It might grow on me.

[David Katauskas]

Originally Posted by Cardioidpotent

but have any of you actually tried this?

Yes (results may vary). However, the best way to get a flat finish is to paint with a flat finish.
I responded because you asked...now for my unsolicited opinion..."leave it alone".

[RezN8]

The best way to de-gloss it is with your own sweat, if you know what I mean.

[Imaduck]

Originally Posted by RezN8

The best way to de-gloss it is with your own sweat, if you know what I mean.

You mean have sex with your guitar? You WOULD think about that, sicko.

[andyhix]

Originally Posted by Cardioidpotent

but have any of you actually tried this?

I haven't done this with a guitar, but recently did a similar de-glossing of a lamp, and was pleased with the results. Of course, with any such irreversible alterations try it first in an inconspicuous area, just like using a new carpet cleaner, or whatever.

[bigwillz24]

Buy 600 & 1500 sand paper from Auto Zone
A can of Primer
And the flat paint color of your choice
Car Wax


Break the guitar down
Sand it down with 600
Tape off any parts you don't want painted
Prime it let it dry & sand again LIGHTLY with 600
Paint let it dry
LIGHTLY SAND with 2000 grit keep your hand flat as possible
Apply car wax & Buff to shine

It's the same method used on cars.

This is how it is done but I do not reccomended it as everyone else has said leave it alone...

[bigwillz24]

Another trick may be to buy some acetone (nail polish remover) and wipe the guitar down with it... It will remove some of the clear coat on the guitar thus deglossing it.

Not as effective as the method described above.