Care Instructions

Please observe the following guidelines for the care of your guitar. With attentive handling, regular maintenance and proper control of its environment, you can do much to preserve the quality and value of your instrument.

Climate Conditions

Wood is a living material – used in guitars it is crafted thin and delicate.

Extreme humidity, rapid temperature fluctuations, or a consistently dry environment can lead to finish damage, cracks, protruding frets, or loosened joints.

It is advisable to keep a reliable hygrometer in the room where the guitar is stored and played. The ideal condition lies between 40 and 55 % relative humidity (my guitars are built in a climate of about 40 %). In cold winter, a heated room can quickly become very dry after ventilation – sometimes down to 15 %. Use a humidifier if the air is too dry; in very damp surroundings, a dehumidifier may be necessary.

Storage

Ideally, keep your instrument in its case. For travel or demanding environments, use a humidification system. I recommend D’Addario or Boveda Humidipaks, which maintain a stable and optimal humidity level.

Avoid direct sunlight, storage near heating sources, or leaving the instrument in a parked car. If your home has underfloor heating, always store the guitar in an elevated position to prevent damage.

Care in Use

After playing, wipe the surface with a soft cloth made of natural fibres, particularly at the contact areas of body and neck. I recommend to not using Microfibre cloths, as they can leave finest scratches on the finish. To prevent fret wear, also clean the underside of the strings.

The surface of my guitars is finished with French polish. It protects the wood, allows the sound to unfold at its best, and gives the instrument its unmatched beauty. However, this finish is sensitive to mechanical stress, heat, and perspiration. Treat your instrument with care and avoid direct skin contact with the body.
Recommendation: For very expressive playing, you may protect exposed areas of the soundboard with a transparent adhesive film.

Avoid using strings with extra high tension. They restrict tonal development and place unnecessary stress on the instrument. Refrain from extensive and hard percussive techniques: although my guitars are robustly built, they are not intended for this playing style.

When changing strings, protect the soundboard behind the bridge with a cloth or card. Replace strings either individually or in groups of three to prevent the bone saddles from falling off.

To maintain the finish, you may use a mild, natural care product designed for musical instruments, such as Bellacura. Avoid wax- or silicone-based products, as they hinder any future refinishing of the surface.

To keep the tuning machines smooth, a single drop of neutral universal oil once a year is sufficient.