French Polishing for Guitarmakers 2.0, by Ronald Louis Fernandez, 53 minutes, DVD (NTSC). This DVD shows the traditional method for French Polishing a classical or flamenco guitar. $25.00 plus $11 shipping, total $36.00.  Only available for shipment in the US.

This new DVD is a completely revised version of our 1995 VHS video. To improve the clarity of images I digitized the original footage. Then, I edited the entire video from scratch adding new titles, scene transitions and tighter splices. While some extra scenes have been added, more than 90% of the original ones remain. One of the advantages of the DVD format is that I have been able to add chapter markers so the viewer can jump to specific sections. At the end of the DVD there is a new section showcasing 3 special instruments I have French Polished in recent years, included is a Felix Manzanero flamenco guitar which was delivered to me in the "white" by Felix so I could French Polish it from scratch. Enclosed with this DVD are 2 printed charts which detail how materials are used during each stage of the process and how a typical work schedule progresses. There is also a short bibliography for those who want to examine some of the literature on this topic. And.... I have added some incidental music at the end of the video and under the menu of me playing the Portuguese guitarra.

 

In June of 2005 I was invited to demonstrate my French Polishing techniques at the convention of A.S.I.A. (Association of Stringed Instrument Artisans). We had 45 people in the class. We handed out supplies and I am happy to report that everyone was able to achieve a nice finish with the techniques shown in the DVD.


French Polishing is a method for applying spirit varnish by hand--it is the traditional finish of master Spanish guitarmakers. The basic technique uses only shellac, alcohol, pumice, oil and a special rubbing pad. It is simple in theory but often tricky in practice.

In this step-by-step presentation, the complete process is shown, from preparing the guitar through sealing. filing, loading, and clearing. Special advice on materials and practical techniques is included throughout.

In addition, 2 printed charts are enclosed with this video. They explain how materials are used during each stage of the process and also suggest a typical work schedule.

This DVD provides guitarmakers and repairpersons what they need to SEE and UNDERSTAND so they can really French Polish effectively.


For a copy of this DVD send $36.00 by money order ($25.00 for the DVD plus $11.00 shipping and handling in the United States). Only available for shipment in the US.

Send payment by PAYPAL to: ron@fernandezmusic.com.

Our commercially replicated DVD is in NTSC format (the standard US and Canadian format). Most PAL DVD players seem to be able to play the NTSC format whereas NTSC DVD players can not play PAL formatted DVD's.

If you have any questions, e-mail me: ron@fernandezmusic.com

Fernandez Music, P.O. Box 2130, Anacortes, WA 98221.

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