What is Nitro Amber?
Nitro amber is a type of finish that is used on musical instruments, particularly guitars. It is a clear, glossy coating that is sprayed on top of the wood of the neck and body of the guitar. This finish protects the wood from damage and wear and also gives the instrument a beautiful, glossy look. Nitro amber is also known for being extremely durable and can last for many years. It is also very easy to apply and is widely available in a variety of colors, allowing you to customize the look of your guitar.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before you start to finish your neck with a spray can of nitro amber, there are a few things you should know. First, you will need to make sure that the surface of the neck is free of dirt and dust. This will help ensure that the finish adheres properly to the wood and that it looks its best. You should also make sure that the temperature in the room is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the nitro amber is applied at the right temperature for the best results.
How to Prepare the Neck for Finishing
Once you have made sure that the surface of the neck is clean and free of dust, the next step is to prepare it for the finish. This involves sanding the neck with a fine grit sandpaper. This will help to smooth out any imperfections in the wood, allowing the finish to adhere properly. Once the sanding is complete, you should then clean the neck again with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dust or debris that may have been left behind by the sanding process.
How to Apply the Nitro Amber Finish
Now that the neck is ready, it’s time to apply the nitro amber finish. To do this, you will need to use a spray can of nitro amber. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the spray can is properly shaken. This will ensure that the finish is evenly distributed when it is applied. Once the spray can is ready, you should then begin to spray the neck in an even, sweeping motion. You should aim to apply a light, even coat of the finish to the neck.
How to Let the Finish Dry
Once you have finished spraying the neck with the nitro amber, you will need to allow it to dry. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the temperature and humidity of the room. During this time, make sure that the neck is not exposed to any direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the finish to become brittle and crack. Once the finish has dried, you should then apply a second, thicker coat of the nitro amber.
How to Smooth the Finish
Once the second coat of nitro amber has been applied, you will need to smooth out the finish. To do this, you can use a piece of fine grit sandpaper and gently buff the finish. This will help to remove any irregularities in the finish and will give it a smooth and glossy finish. Once the finish has been buffed, you should then wipe the neck with a clean cloth to remove any dust or debris. This will help to ensure that the finish looks its best.
Conclusion
Finishing a neck with a spray can of nitro amber is a relatively easy process that can be done in a few hours. To get the best results, make sure that the neck is clean and free of dust, that the temperature of the room is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and that the spray can is properly shaken. You should also make sure that you apply two coats of the finish and that you buff the finish afterwards. Following these steps will help ensure that your guitar looks its best for many years to come.