Headstock Logo

[Marc Dutko]

Hi everyone Im thinking about doing some sort of headstock logo, probably just my initials. Don't want to go the inlay route at this point. I like the look of the printed ones on commercial guitars, Im assuming they are screen printed in which I do have some experience with. I have seen others use waterslide decals. Im planning on using tru oli for the finish....any thoughts, ideas, experience anyone would like to share would be much appreciated. Thanks

[mike-p]

Water slide decals are not compatible with tru oil I was told by the decal manufacturer. Which is a bit of a pain.

[Marc Dutko]

I have heard that too, wondering if I could seal it with something before the tru oil of just use something else entirely on just the head stock

[ken cierp]

You should be using a rattle can spray product over decals Its the rubbing or brushing action that screws up and loosens the decal.

[mike-p]

I left the oil to cure for quite a few weeks and then applied the decal no problem but it really needs something over the top to protect it. There is probably something you can spray over tru oil but I don't know what . shellac?

[Marc Dutko]

I just saw one done using vinyl from a local sign shop. There happens to be one right down the street from me and he can do it no problem, they have some nice colors to choose from, one being a satin gold that looked great...anybody with any experience with that?

[Ray Ussery]

You can spray Tru-oil over water slide decals. Of course decal must be completely dry...and then you MUST use a VERY light mist to begin with, like from at leas 10" out and allow to completely dry between coats...have patience....rushing this will get you in trouble...do this 3/4 times before going ahead with burying the decal.
However I personally do not use the TO Spray can in this process, I thin it 2/1 with mineral spirits and use a pre-vail sprayer or my air brush...if you have access to a air brush or HVLP Gun you can do the same thing....(I like the air brush because of control) let it dry between 2/3 coats. Be sure to clean any equipment well by spraying straight mineral spirits through for a minute or so.
Practice on something besides the neck with at least one extra decal before moving on.
I DO NOT sand between coats....after you are sure it's completely buried, you can lightly sand with 800-1000 to remove any nibs or uneven surface and then polish as usual. .02

Good Luck!