Sunburst (finish)

Sunburst is a distinctive, multi-colored wood finish that features a gradient effect with hues radiating from light to dark. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of musical instruments, such as guitars, bass guitars, and mandolins. The sunburst finish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the instrument but also showcases the natural grain of the wood. This finish has a rich history in the music industry and remains popular among musicians and collectors alike.

History

The sunburst finish has its origins in the early 20th century, where it was first applied to stringed instruments. It gained significant popularity in the 1950s and 1960s with the rise of rock and roll music, becoming synonymous with iconic electric guitars produced by manufacturers like Fender and Gibson. The sunburst finish was initially created as a means to smooth over the transition between different pieces of wood used in the instrument's body, making the joins less noticeable and the instrument more visually appealing.

Technique

Creating a sunburst finish involves a meticulous process of layering and blending different stains and colors. The center of the body typically starts with a lighter color, such as yellow or amber, which gradually darkens to oranges and reds before reaching a dark brown or black at the edges. The technique requires a skilled hand to achieve a seamless gradient effect. Modern methods may use spray guns for the application of stains, allowing for more consistent results and the ability to create variations of the traditional sunburst, such as the three-color sunburst or the cherry sunburst.

Variations

Over the years, several variations of the sunburst finish have emerged, including:

• Two-Color Sunburst: Features two colors, typically a light center transitioning to a dark edge.
• Three-Color Sunburst: Incorporates a middle ring of red between the light center and dark edge, offering a more complex and visually striking appearance.
• Cherry Sunburst: A popular variation that uses vibrant red hues to create a striking contrast with the dark outer edges.
• Tobacco Sunburst: Characterized by its darker, more subdued hues, giving the instrument a vintage look.

Significance

The sunburst finish is more than just a cosmetic choice; it has become a part of the identity of many iconic instruments and is often associated with certain genres of music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its aesthetic appeal and the craftsmanship involved in its creation. Collectors and musicians alike often seek out vintage instruments with original sunburst finishes, valuing them for their beauty, history, and the unique character they bring to an instrument.

See Also

• Guitar construction
• Luthier
• Wood finishing