I'm finishing up my next mandolin, and I can't quite decide if I'm happy with the colour on top. It's padded un-dyed shellac over sitka. I finished my last instrument in exactly the same way with great results, but that was dark cedar and a hell of a lot more forgiving to finish. Is this just how a hand rubbed finish over spruce looks? Should I knock it all back and start with a clear sealer? I've included stacks of photos in different light so you can get a sense of how it looks, it's even from some angles and a bit mottled from others. It would get another few coats and a polish if I decide to go with it.
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