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I think an oil of some sort is proper for these cocobolo fretboards but I'm certain that something a little more natural than Tru-Oil or Minwax is better.

Is there, perhaps, an optimal oil to use on this stuff?

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I read Emerson on the can. A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds...true...but a consistent reading of Emerson has its uses nevertheless.

StuMusic

None.
It's already oily.

I have had good success with Formby's lemon oil treatment. Just a few drops for the whole board, wipe off thoroughly.

Depending on how naturally oily the coco is, you probably won't need a lot at all.

Yeah....and I polished it nicely on the wheel...except the pores are a problem. On a few of these boards the pores are a bit pronounced and I'd like to fill them if possible.

Pore fill with z-poxy and then block sand it back to the wood......then polish? I'll try this on some scrap.

Also, I expect epoxy is the best choice for gluing these to the neck....due to the oilyness. Right?

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I read Emerson on the can. A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds...true...but a consistent reading of Emerson has its uses nevertheless.

StuMusic

With coco, i'd say just finish it to a high grade sandpaper... maybe 1000-1200, and buff it. It's already oily so it'll polish by itself. And I'd say later, maintain it with lemon oil, every 6 months, maybe.

Francis

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Francis Richer, Montréal
Les Guitares F&M Guitars