1. The first step to installing a pickguard on an acoustic guitar is to find the right template for your instrument’s model and size. You will then need to trace the outline of the template onto the pickguard material, such as plastic or tortoise shell, and cut it out with a pair of scissors. Once you have cut out the shape, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges.
2. Next, place double-sided tape around all four edges of the pickguard and attach it onto your guitar in its desired location. Make sure that you remove any excess air bubbles from beneath the guard by pressing down firmly on each side with your fingers or a cloth rag before moving onto the next step.
3. Secure the pickguard into place using small screws at each corner and along either edge if necessary. Be sure not to over-tighten them as this may cause damage to both your guitar and the pickguard itself.
Contents:
Preparing for Pickguard Installation
To make the process of installing a pickguard on an acoustic guitar as efficient and accurate as possible, it is important to prepare properly before beginning. It is wise to lay out all of the tools that will be needed for the job in one convenient location. This should include a phillips-head screwdriver, small pliers, an xacto knife, sandpaper, and a ruler or measuring tape. Having everything organized beforehand can help make sure that nothing gets missed while working on the project.
When starting with any instrument repair or modification task, safety must come first. When dealing with sharp objects such as an xacto blade, it is important to wear protective gloves so as not to cut oneself accidentally. Proper ventilation should be taken into consideration if using potentially hazardous materials like glue or lacquer thinners. Taking these precautions before beginning can ensure the installation process runs smoothly without any unexpected injuries or accidents along the way.
Once all necessary supplies are collected and safety guidelines are observed, it is important to take a few moments to review how exactly one intends to approach pickguard installation for their specific instrument model before committing anything permanently with adhesive or other fasteners. Doing some research ahead of time about what type of pickguard best suits one’s individual needs can help ensure they end up with just the right look they’re going for when all is said and done.
Gathering Materials and Tools
When it comes to the task of affixing a pickguard onto an acoustic guitar, the job is made much easier by having the right materials and tools on hand. It’s essential to have a piece of material that’s large enough to be cut into the size and shape of the desired pickguard. While hard plastic is traditionally used for this purpose, more durable acrylic can also work well.
The installation process begins with preparing any special drilling required for mounting screws or electronic components, such as pickups or switches. A power drill should be used with great care when making these holes; smaller pilot holes can help reduce splitting or cracking during this step. When measuring where to make each hole, note that they will need to go deep enough so that they reach the surface beneath the pickguard.
Once all necessary cuts and holes are made in the material itself, double-sided adhesive tape should be applied along its backside for maximum security. This will ensure that no water seeps through into the interior parts of your guitar over time due to condensation in humid climates. All remaining steps in applying a new pickguard involve strategically attaching it from within your instrument’s soundhole and tightening it down with screws according to its manufacturer’s instructions – but having a properly prepared guard beforehand makes sure everything goes smoothly.
Removing the Old Pickguard
Removing the old pickguard is an important step in putting a new one on. To start, you’ll want to gently pry off the existing pickguard using a small flathead screwdriver or a guitar pick. Be sure to work slowly and carefully so as not to damage any of the finish or hardware on your acoustic guitar. You may find that some of the screws have become corroded over time and will need to be replaced with new ones before proceeding with installation of the new pickguard.
Once all of the screws have been removed, take caution when removing the old pickguard from its mounting surface as this is where most guitars are vulnerable to scratching and denting if handled improperly. Be sure to use something soft such as a cloth or cotton swab when lifting it away in order to keep your instrument safe. Once completely removed, give your acoustic guitar body a thorough cleaning before moving forward with replacing it with a brand-new one.
Placing the New Pickguard onto Acoustic Guitar
Attaching a pickguard to an acoustic guitar is a relatively simple process. But there are a few tricks that can make it easier, and ensure that the guard remains in place once it has been installed.
Before beginning, gather the necessary supplies: a new pickguard, some alcohol-based cleaner, 3M double-sided adhesive strips, fine sandpaper, and masking tape. With these items in hand, cleaning and prepping the area where the guard will be placed should be your first priority. Start by wiping down both sides of the guard with alcohol cleaner to remove any dirt or oils. Next use the sandpaper to roughen up the surfaces; this will help create a more secure bond for the adhesive tape later on.
The next step is positioning and taping off where you want to attach your new pickguard. It’s important not to skip this step as it will give you an idea of what kind of adjustments need to be made if you find yourself needing additional room later on while installing it onto your guitar. Once satisfied with its location begin attaching one side of each piece of double-sided adhesive strip along its edges until completely secured on all four corners – then repeat this process on all sides before removing any excess pieces of tape left behind by pressing them down firmly against either side of the guitar’s body. Finally place the newly attached pickguard overtop and press firmly into place until fully secured – now your ready to start enjoying playing again with your freshly updated instrument.
Securing the New Pickguard to Your Acoustic Guitar
Securing your new pickguard to your acoustic guitar can be done with a few simple steps. The first step is to place the pickguard on the guitar in the desired spot and then use a pencil or pen to mark each of the screw holes. Then, remove the pickguard and use a drill bit that matches up with the screws that came with it. Carefully drill into each marked hole, making sure not to go too deep and cause any damage to your instrument. After you have drilled each hole, take one of the screws provided with your pickguard and gently insert it through one of the holes you just drilled. Make sure that it is securely fastened before proceeding onto another screw. Once all of these are secured, place your pickguard back onto your guitar in its rightful spot and ensure it is properly attached by lightly tugging on it from all sides. This should hold for years if done correctly.
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