I have a 100+ year old waldzither that has seen more than its share of abuse, yet it is quite playable (and sounds pretty good). I have been looking at the cowboy buckle rash and pick scars for over a year now and have always thought it could look pretty good if refinished - no major dents or gouges, most of the scrapes and scabs are in the finish.
A few days ago I started on the back, which I am pretty sure is rosewood. I sanded (with minimal pressure) with 150 grit paper until just barely through the finish, then got the remaining traces with 240. Everything looked nice with pretty even color (except for the grain, of course).
I quit for the day and came back the next day to begin on the sides and noticed that the back was blotchy. Some of the blotches even looking oily. See photo.
I have read that rosewood is 'resinous' and can be problematic with some kinds of finishes. Is that what I am seeing? My plan was to use a wiping varnish mixture - 50/50 semigloss polyurethane and mineral spirits. Maybe three or four coats. Is this going to be a problem? Do I need to treat or seal the rosewood prior to applying the finish? Any other advice or potential pitfalls to watch out for?
Thanks
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