Engraving a painted finish

First so sorry to have been away for so long, I have been struggling physically and hopefully on the upswing.
I started a project awhile back and have finally picked it back up. I decided to make 4 telecaster style guitars for my 2 sons and 2 son-in-laws. The first two where stained and finished with osmo. I used oramask and engraved the back with the message you see and a darker stain to make the letters stand out. The last two guitars are enameled, one sea mist the other ivory, grain has been filled and bodies sanded smooth.
How would I engrave this? before paint, after paint but before clear, should i just make a aquaslide decal and apply prior to clear? Another option might be have the chrome neck plate professionally engraved.
Any suggestions appreciated.


Here is what the plate looks like, maybe if I take it to a trophy shop they can do it?

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I don’t have an answer for you but welcome back! I hope you continue to feel better.

I know next to nothing about guitars but I think yours look great! I’m sure they will be treasured.

Anyone with a fiber laser can engrave the plate. I do them all the time, but I try to do it to solid material and avoid anything that’s chrome plated, it might peel.

Hi @Bill! I hope you continue on the mend! I do understand the whole health situation. I do believe that doing what we enjoy is good medicine.

I’d try painting some scrap, finish with clear and attempt to carve it, just to see what it would look like. There are many people painting before carving. Personally, I have not tried it. Did I miss it? Were you going to leave the carving unpainted or were you planning on finishing it somehow?

Once again, welcome back and sending continued healing wishes your way!
Jake

Thanks fastrider Rob, that’s what I’m going to do, but not me, taking the plates to an engraver tomorrow but they are or appear plated, will see. Thanks.

Where can I source non plated neck plates? Are they aluminum?

I found some solid nickle for $10 ea., gonna order a couple of them.
Thanks again.

Thanks Jake, this past year has been a struggle, Stage 4 cancer is still less difficult than learning my CNC LOL. Once I finish the guitars for the 4 guys, I’m making clocks for the girls, can’t leave them out.

@Bill Welcome back, Bill. :slightly_smiling_face:

Bill,

I’ve used a couple of different neck plates.

This is a titanium plate, a little pricey if you have to do a few all at once.

I’ve also used this coated plate, but that was for a black guitar, obviously not what you are working with. (But an option for future projects)

Hope it helps.

Thanks for the assistance, I found nickle but the titanium just looks awesome, let the shopping begin.

Thanks again,
Bill

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