Not all of us are born with an eye for color. With this in mind, in the following guide, I’m going to discuss some of the finer points about color with regard to designing electric guitars, including opaque, semi-opaque finishes, and burst finishes. I’ll also explain the difference between a gloss and satin finish and what this means in terms of appearance, paint protection, and the potential for influencing tone. So, if you’re interested in learning how to get the color and finish right on your guitar don’t fret it! we’ve got you covered.
Fun Fact
While the color and finish of your guitar are largely aesthetic, the paint on your guitar also serves to protect the wood from dents, and chips. In fact, in many cases polyurethane and polyester are used on guitars, to increase durability and resistance to wear.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Colors
Within our design tool, we currently offer 10 different colors, in both opaque (non-transparent) and semi-transparent finishes. We also offer 7 different burst options and the choice between gloss and satin finish, which is the clear coat, or top coat.
But what if you have no idea about color? How do you go about choosing the ideal color for you? Below are 6 factors to consider:
- Visual Appeal and Personal Taste: While fairly obvious, ultimately, your personal taste and what visually appeals to you should play a significant role in your decision. Choose a color that resonates with your aesthetic preferences and makes you excited to pick up and play your guitar.
- Wood Choice and Grain: The type of wood used for the guitar’s body and top may influence your choice of color. For example, if you choose a maple veneer top (known for distinctive grain patterns) if you then choose an opaque finish you won’t see the grain pattern beneath the paint. In this case, you would almost certainly be best off considering a semi-transparent finish (more on this shortly).
- Gloss vs. Matte Finishes: The finish of your guitar can significantly impact how the color appears. Gloss finishes tend to reflect more light and provide a shiny appearance, while satin finishes have a more subdued, non-reflective look.
- Performance Environment: Think about if you’ll be performing with the guitar. If you frequently play in dimly lit venues, a color that stands out under stage lighting may be important to you.
- Resale Value: While it may not be the primary consideration, some colors and finishes are more sought after in the used guitar market. If resale value is a concern, you might want to consider colors such as traditional black, white, or sunburst as these tend to be more sought after.
- Inspiration: Consider colors that inspire you creatively. The visual aesthetics of your guitar can be a source of inspiration and motivation for your music. Let’s face it it’s not always that easy to walk past a beautiful guitar without picking it up.
Opaque and Semi-transparent Finishes
While we’ve already touched on why a semi-transparent finish is the best option if you have selected a maple veneer top, if you choose not to have a maple top the choice of wood is still likely to be a factor. For example, Paulownia and Basswood aren’t all that visually interesting (there are exceptions) which is why you will find many of the mid-entry guitars offered by brands such as Ibanez are almost always fully opaque. The wood grain underneath just isn’t as interesting, so showing the wood grain pattern isn’t desirable.
If however, you choose Mahogany, Ashwood, or Alder, not only do these woods have slight tonal differences, but they also usually consist of highly figured wood grain patterns, and when shown under a semi-transparent or even natural finish the wood grain pattern tends to be accentuated.
Burst Finishes
A burst finish, often referred to as a “sunburst” or simply a “burst,” is a distinctive guitar finish that features a gradual transition of colors from the center of the guitar body outward. The center typically exhibits a darker color, which gradually fades or “bursts” into a lighter shade toward the edges. This finish style is favored for its aesthetic appeal and is commonly used on Fender Stratocasters, for example.
Types of Burst Finishes
Below are some of the more common burst finishes available.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Sunburst | This is the most well-known type of burst finish. It typically features a dark center (often brown, black, or deep red) fading into a bright, sunlit hue at the edges (commonly yellow, orange, or red). |
| Tobacco Burst | Similar to sunburst but with a more tobacco or amber-colored center, fading into lighter shades of brown or yellow at the edges. |
| Cherry Burst | A variation of sunburst with a dark red or cherry-colored center transitioning into lighter red or pinkish hues at the edges. |
| Vintage Burst | This is a burst finish that seeks to replicate the look of vintage guitars. It often features subtle, aged colors, such as a faded brown or amber center transitioning into lighter, slightly weathered shades at the edges. |
Gloss and Satin Finishes
Once you have selected the color for your guitar, you will then have the choice of finish between gloss and satin. While this will also largely come down to aesthetics there are additional considerations to be aware of. which are covered below.
Gloss Finish
A gloss finish is characterized by its high shine and reflective surface. It provides a smooth and glass-like appearance, often enhancing the depth and richness of the guitar’s color. Gloss finishes are known for their durability and resistance to minor scratches and scuffs. While they contribute to a polished and pristine look, a high-gloss surface is also more prone to showing fingerprints and smudges. Tonally, gloss finishes typically have a minimal impact on the guitar’s sound, as they are relatively thin and do not impede the vibrations of the wood.
Satin Finish
Satin finishes, in contrast, have a non-reflective appearance. They offer a more tactile feel compared to their glossy counterparts. Satin finishes are often preferred by players who appreciate a smoother, “worn-in” feel on the neck and body of the guitar. They are less prone to showing fingerprints and are generally easier to maintain in terms of cosmetic appearance. While satin finishes can have a slightly thinner and more open texture compared to gloss, their tonal impact on the guitar is usually minimal, focusing more on the feel and aesthetic preference of the player.
In choosing between gloss and satin finishes, players often consider their visual preference, tactile comfort, and the overall aesthetic they desire in their electric guitar.
Maintenance
Maintaining the finish of your guitar is essential to preserve its visual appeal and protect it from wear and tear. Below are some tips on how to care for and maintain your guitar’s finish:
Cleaning and Polishing
Regularly clean your guitar’s finish using a soft, lint-free cloth. Gently wipe away any dust, fingerprints, or smudges. Avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. Specialized guitar cleaning products are available, but in most cases, I prefer to use lighter fluid as it is designed to have low solvent power, which means it can break down and dissolve certain substances, but it is not highly aggressive and doesn’t react strongly with most types of paint.
Periodically, you can also apply a high-quality guitar polish to enhance the shine and protect the finish. Make sure to use a polish specifically designed for musical instruments, as it will be safe for your guitar’s finish. Apply a small amount of polish to a clean cloth and buff the surface in a circular motion. Be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive polishing can lead to buildup.
Storage
When not in use, store your guitar in a controlled environment. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations, as this can lead to damage and warping. Using a protective case or gig bag can help shield your guitar from environmental elements and accidental damage.
Handling
A simple tip I encourage guitarists to follow is to always wash your hands prior to playing your guitar. This not only helps your strings last longer and limits the amount of gunk that builds up around the fret wires on your neck, but it also helps preserve your finish as oils, sweat, and dirt from your hands can accumulate on the finish over time.
By following these simple maintenance tasks, you can help ensure that your guitar’s finish remains in great condition, allowing it to age gracefully and maintain its visual appeal throughout its life.
Final Thoughts
To sum things up, choosing the right color for your guitar is a fairly important decision that can impact both its aesthetics and your personal connection to the instrument. Keep in mind, your guitar’s finish is not only about looks; it also serves to protect the wood from wear and tear. Whether you opt for classic black or a vibrant sunburst, your choice should resonate with your musical identity. Burst finishes add a touch of elegance, while gloss and satin finishes offer distinct tactile experiences.
Ultimately, the color combination you select should inspire you and make you eager to pick up and play your guitar. Your guitar’s finish is a reflection of your unique style and artistic sensibilities, especially if playing a custom guitar, so choose wisely, and let your instrument become an extension of your musical personality.
