Repairing Guitar Paint Chips: Quick And Easy Diy Guide

There are various ways to fix a paint chip on a guitar, and the best method depends on the size and depth of the chip, as well as the colour of the guitar. Some common methods include using nail polish, super glue, epoxy, or wood filler. Some people choose to leave the chip as is, or cover it with a sticker, as they believe that the way a guitar looks is less important than how it sounds. Others opt for a full refinish, which involves stripping and repainting the guitar.

Using nail polish

Step 1: Prepare the Chipped Area

Before applying any nail polish, ensure that the chipped area is clean and free of any debris. If there are any protruding pieces of finish around the chip, you may carefully remove them using a small tool, such as a toothpick or a razor blade. Be gentle to avoid causing further damage.

Step 2: Choose the Right Nail Polish

Selecting the appropriate nail polish colour is crucial. If possible, choose a colour that closely matches the colour of your guitar's finish. You may need to visit a store with a wide variety of nail polish options to find the best match. Alternatively, consider using clear nail polish if you cannot find an exact colour match.

Step 3: Apply the Nail Polish

Once you have the matching nail polish, it's time to fill in the chip. You can do this by carefully dropping the nail polish into the chipped area, layer by layer. This technique is called "drop-filling." Allow each layer to dry before applying the next one. Build up the nail polish slightly above the surface of the guitar to ensure the chip is adequately filled.

Step 4: Sanding and Buffing (Optional)

After the nail polish has completely dried, you may use a razor blade to gently scrape away any excess polish that is raised above the surface. Then, use a fine-grit sandpaper (such as 800-grit) to smooth out the filled area. Wet the sandpaper or use it dry, depending on your preference. Back the sandpaper with a small block of wood to provide a sturdy surface during sanding. Finally, polish the area to restore shine and achieve a smoother finish.

Additional Tips:

• If you are concerned about colour matching, consider using clear nail polish, which can help seal the chip without altering the colour.
• Some people suggest using super glue in addition to nail polish for added durability. However, others prefer to avoid super glue due to concerns about how it will buff out.
• Keep in mind that nail polish may not provide a flawless repair, and you may still notice the chip upon close inspection.

Applying super glue

To fix a paint chip on a guitar, you can use super glue. This method is suitable for guitars with polyester and polyurethane finishes, which typically cost under $1,500. If your guitar has a nitrocellulose finish or if the chip has exposed the body wood, do not use this method.

Before applying super glue, you can use a toothpick to apply a small amount of Behkol solvent to the chip. This will show you how the chip will look with a clear finish. If the colour is too light, you can add a small amount of coloured stain to match the colour of your guitar.

There are two ways to apply super glue to a paint chip on a guitar:

• Using thick super glue: Spread some thick super glue on the chipped area and press the flake firmly into place, holding it for 30 seconds. It is important to be careful and avoid getting glue on your fingers or other parts of the guitar. You can use nitrile or latex gloves to protect your fingers.
• Using thin super glue: Hold the chip firmly in place, exactly how you want it to set. Then, use a whip tip to apply tiny drops of thin super glue right on the edge of the flake, allowing it to wick into the gap instantly. Be careful not to use too much glue, as it may run outside the chip.

After applying super glue, you can use a toothpick to form a fillet around the chip, creating a smooth finish. This process is known as the "drop-fill" technique. You can also use sandpaper to smooth out the area and match the contours of your guitar.

Epoxy filling

Prepare the Guitar Surface

Before starting the repair, ensure that the guitar's surface is clean and dry. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any dust or debris from the chipped area. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area when dealing with epoxy and other chemicals.

Choose the Right Epoxy

Select a clear epoxy that will dry transparently or match the colour of your guitar as closely as possible. You can find epoxy specifically designed for wood repairs at hardware stores or luthier supply shops. Read the instructions on the packaging carefully to understand the mixing and application process.

Mix the Epoxy

Epoxies typically come in two parts: a resin and a hardener. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing these components in the correct ratio. Use a small container and a wooden or plastic stick for mixing to avoid contamination.

Apply the Epoxy

Using a small spatula, toothpick, or similar tool, carefully fill the chipped area with the mixed epoxy. Try to match the contour of the guitar's body and avoid applying too much pressure, which could cause the epoxy to spread beyond the chipped area.

Allow the Epoxy to Dry

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. Depending on the epoxy, it may take several hours or even days to fully cure. Do not touch or handle the guitar during this period to avoid smudging or damaging the repair.

Sanding and Finishing

Once the epoxy is completely dry, you can begin the sanding process to smooth out the repair. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper (around 400-grit) and gently sand the area until it feels smooth and even. Gradually increase the grit size (600, 800, etc.) and continue sanding until the repaired area blends seamlessly with the surrounding finish. Finally, you can apply a thin coat of clear nail polish or lacquer to enhance the shine and protect the repair.

Remember that any repair work may affect the tone and resonance of your guitar. While epoxy filling is a great solution for cosmetic improvements, it is essential to be cautious and careful during the repair process.

Painting over

If you are confident in your ability to repaint the guitar yourself, you should start by mixing paint to match the colour of the guitar. Test the paint to be sure it dries the same colour, as it usually won't. The paint will likely need to be a little lighter while wet so that it matches the guitar's colour when dry. You can then paint a layer over the chip, starting with a thick layer. When the paint dries (which can take between 4 and 12 hours), add another coat. Repeat this process until the paint is even or slightly higher than the existing finish.

You can then sand down the paint with sandpaper, using increasingly fine grits of sandpaper. Start with 400 grit, then 800, then 1500. You can then finish with a polish. You can also use a razor blade to trim down any glue used to fill the chip.

Alternatively, you can use nail polish to paint over the chip. You can use clear nail polish to seal the chip and keep it from worsening, or you can find a nail polish that matches the colour of the guitar and apply it sparingly. You can then sand it down and add another layer of nail polish.

Sanding down

Start by using a medium grit sandpaper, such as 400-grit sandpaper. This grade will help you effectively level the filled-in area without removing too much material. Sand the filled area until it is even with the surrounding surface. It is important to sand in multiple directions, not just a single one, to achieve an even result. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure, as you don't want to create new scratches or damage the surrounding finish.

Once you have achieved a relatively smooth surface with the 400-grit sandpaper, it's time to move on to a finer grit. Switch to 600-grit sandpaper and continue sanding the area. This finer grit will help you smooth out the surface further, removing any scratches left by the previous grit. Remember to sand in multiple directions and apply light pressure.

After sanding with the 600-grit sandpaper, you can progress to an even finer grit, such as 800-grit or 1500-grit sandpaper. This step will help you refine the surface even further, removing any remaining scratches and creating an increasingly smooth finish. As before, be sure to sand in multiple directions and apply gentle pressure.

When using sandpaper, it is essential to keep the sanding block flat. One effective method is to use a small block of wood, rubber, or leather with double-stick tape to secure the sandpaper. This ensures that the edges of the block do not round over the surface, creating unwanted scratches or an uneven finish. Taking the time to prepare your sanding block will result in a better outcome.

Finally, finish the process by buffing the area with a polishing compound. This step will help you achieve a uniform shine and further smooth out any remaining imperfections. You can use a medium paste compound and apply pressure with the palm of your hand to bring out a nice shine. Remember that the goal is to create a smooth and even surface that blends seamlessly with the surrounding finish.

Frequently asked questions