Online Tips Index / Finishing / Finishing Fretwork
Finishing Fretwork
Here are a couple of tricks you can use to put the finishing touches on fretwork panels.
Tiny ridges, kerfs, and burns marks are common problems. Traditionally, small
files (rifflers) are used for getting into the fretwork openings. But we
found that a inexpensive modern diamond file works just as well, in some
instances better, see photo at left. It has a round side and a flat side for
both curved and flat edges.
As for applying a finish, we get into the tiny openings by dipping the panel
in an oil finish, see photo at right. When dipping a fretwork panel, aluminum
foil shaped into a tray acts as a reservoir for the oil finish. To remove the
excess finish, you can blot the panel dry with a cloth or blow it out with
compressed air.
