Official Luthiers Forum!

Why aren't the different beautiful woods for pic guards?Warping etc. What is best way to make?

Bob

My preference has always been for the clear guards. I prefer the look of the top without a coloured guard. I have never used a wooden guard but have seen it done. Some of the wooden guards I have seen are awfully thick (that goes for many of the coloured plastic ones as well). My thinking is that has to dampen some top vibration. The clear ones are thin and still protect the top. My other question with the wooden guard is how well will it would stand up to pick wear. Would you finish it with something special or just regular lacquer?

Josh

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Josh House

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I would think the main reason for not using wood pick guards would be weight and it would dapen the top a bit.

Josh,
I have noticed that guards are much too thick. I use rather thin. I use 2 or three coats of clear wipe on poly for scratch resistance.
Thanks

Michael,
I use thinner guards than the plastic types used. To me, wood would resonate better than plastic-Wrong?

I doubt there's a real audible difference if we're talking the super-thin self-adhesive transparent mylar guards, and nothing 'huge' with normal ones either. I don't know if a piece of wood than thin would contribute to resonance, and 2-3 coats of wipe-on poly won't do much if you're giving your guitar to a flatpicker.