Stripped Baja

 I bought my Baja in lockdown for “quiet” playing and whilst I love the feel I’ve never liked the finish, it looks plasticky, because it’s essentially plastic. Plus if I’m honest with myself I’d always hankered after Bruce’s Telecaster on the cover of “Born to Run”. 

This time yesterday it looked like this:

After 20 minutes or so with a hot air gun and scraper it looked like this:

And a little later I had this

I’d actually started with the back in case I messed up, which I managed to do :( as evidenced by the scorch marks. 

I considered bleaching it but having slept on it I’m going to leave it. The potential for getting it wrong is high (see above) and it adds a little character. 

Was pleased to find a nice piece of Ash underneath. As the original finish was slightly transparent I’d suspected it would but I’m really happy with what’s underneath. Today will be spent sanding and oiling.