Friday, October 28, 2011

Grand Piano Restoration: Ebony Sharps Refinished


  
I use this process because it is fast, works well, and gives good results. First the ebony sharps are cleaned with white vinegar to remove all dirt and grime from use. At times this type of verdigris is hard to remove. In that case a stronger cleaner such as Methyl Hydrate is used. With any type of chemical cleaner such as Methyl Hydrate, always make sure you have proper safety gear available; gloves and a respirator, along with good ventilation or use these products outside if possible.

I like to use the alcohol pigmentation stains in the new aerosol spray form. I find them really quick and easy; spray on the key top, let the alcohol flash off for a minute and then wipe the excess away. Allow thirty minutes to dry before spraying a top coat of satin lacquer.

 Usually the keys in the center of the piano have the colour worn away below where the ebony sharp is attached. This will show as bare wood when the key set is played. I use another new product that is a felt marker pen with the alcohol pigmentation stain and lacquer together.

Here are a few photos of the process and the finished product. Starting the photo album at photo 136.

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