I agree completely with Ken. When I build a modern dulcimer, I tend to use spray semi-gloss clear lacquer such as Deft. It's fast-drying, smooth-coating, and looks fine to me once it's knocked down with steel wool, waxed and buffed.
For historical reproductions, which I'm known for now, I try to replicate the finish that was used by the original builder. This would include (amber) shellac, flat black milk paint, oil or whatever else I can determine that they used back then.
Great question!
When I first started making dulcimers I used violin varnish as that was what my teacher used since he was a violin maker. I think I made three or four dulcimers with this finish and started looking for something easier and less labor intensive. I tried both brush on and wipe on polyurethane finishes, but did not like the look of them. For most of the rest of time building dulcimers I used a spray on lacquer finish. Once I got in to making reproductions I started using oil and shellac finishes. I've also used milk paint. Now, to answer your question, I don't think any of the are the best finish. It just depends on what you are trying to achieve. I think for the end user a lacquer finish is the easiest to care for finish. It cleans and polishes well and looks good plus it can be satin, semi-gloss, or gloss so you can go from understated to flashy.
You can't buy denatured alcohol (labeled as such) here in Pennsylvania either, but you can buy denatured alcohol as fuel for alcohol stoves.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
Hello everybody, just Jon Lilley here again. With another dumb question this question is to those who are Luthier out there builders. What is your personal opinion? What do you think is the best finish for instruments? varnish, lacquer, or French polishing. And why?
Don't let the fact that here in California. Our wonderful politicians have decided to make French polishing indirectly illegal. We no longer can get denatured alcohol here it's illegal
Thanks again for your opinions and feedback
