Painting over old finish

[Ibateur]

Hi, I have a currently black guitar that I was sanding down to wood. Now, I'm wondering if that is worth it, given the fact that I will repaint it anyway. What are your thoughts on this?

I am thinking now of just sanding down to a good rough finish, re-priming and painting cream. I've already sanded the front to a dull gray-black.

Thanks

[frankfalbo]

It's easier to use their paint as a base, since all the filling and sealing has already been done. Just make sure it's not too smooth. I would sand with 220 grit if you have it. You can give it a quick brush over with 320 grit after that to smooth out any major cuts. It will make you have to use a little more primer to level it off again, but it will be well worth it. Most factory poly finishes do not want to accept traditional lacquers over the top. Unless you're spraying an automotive grade polyurethane it will be prone to chipping off.

[Ibateur]

Muchas thanks Frank. I'm now using 120 grit to get the shine off. I'll do a test and prime over the rough finish and sand smooth with a smoother grit that I also have. Then I'll do some ding tests to see if the primer chips off. If it does, then I might just use the guitar over the winter. Gets mighty cold 'round here.

I plan to just spray over with a canned paint.

[Ibateur]

Help again.

I've primed the body. Should the primer be opaque, or should I be able to see through to the black paint underneath?

Right now, after sanding, it looks just a little whiter than before.