Shellac itself is a solid substance that is dissolved in ethanol and soaked in a muneca before being applied to the guitar. The first coat should be applied to fill in the fine pores of the wood surface. Further coats are then applied to add thickness and luster. In general, over 200 coats are required.

Binding is also sometimes added to the edges of the fingerboard and headstock. PURFLING - Ornamental inlay strips typically placed inside the binding around the edges of the top of a guitar (and sometimes the back). In common casual usage, people often don't distinguish purfling from binding.

Clean / degrease the surface using mineral spirits and a cloth. When it's dry, remove any dust or dirt using a tack cloth. Apply 6 – 10 coats of clear lacquer. Wait at least 20 minutes between coats and apply a maximum of 3 coats each day.

If your guitar is mass- produced like mine, have no fear in replacing the bridge yourself. It is well within the ability of the average DIY'er as long as you have patience and take your time.