Vinnie's now-black Essence

[mica]

The black tinted paint is starting...
 

 
The lighting isn't great, but don't worry, you can still see that strong flame figure through the tint.

[doug_k]

All hail the dark lord!

[cousinvinnie]

Right on Doug ! That is just pure deliciousness. Thank you thank you Mica for posting !! So appreciate the pics and statuses.

[cousinvinnie]

Mica, do you know what the general ETA is on an instrument that has moved onto the paint department ? Just curious. Thanks again !!

[mica]

It's too early in finish to tell - the black finish is really unpredictable. If things go well, it could be 6-8 weeks. If the finish doesn't cooperate, it could be another 12-16 weeks. Actually, it could be even longer, but I don't want to think about that at this point.

[cousinvinnie]

LOL Mica !!!! cooperate ya g'dang paint !!  
 
Whatever it takes, no worries, no rush. Thanks again to all of yas !!!!

[briant]

Black is one of the hardest colors/colours to get right.
 
That's already looking hot sexy sexy.

[cousinvinnie]

Hi Mica, gawd I can't believe I'm getting antsy and being a pest. I'm so sorry. I gotta admit, I'm *very* excited about this one.
 
Any thoughts from the paint shop about how this one is taking the trans black ?  
 
Also they are doing the headstock as well I hope, correct ?
 
Thanks again for everything you all are doing !!

[cousinvinnie]

Mica, any recent action shots of this guy ? I hope it is taking the trans black well. Thanks Mica !!

[mica]

Yes - the peghead and the neck as well as the front and back of the body are all transblack. Everything that isn't the fingerboard is the transblack.  
 
I should actually be at home, but I stopped in for a short time to get some pics taken so I don't hold up shipments and a small parcel together for Pierre-Yves, so I didn't have time to take pictures for you.  
 
BUT, I did see your bass, and it's looking great, but the color is just between navy blue and black, so it needs more time in finish to tweak the color.  
 
Then we will just cross fingers that it's a happy little bass and just scoots along to setup.
 
(Message edited by mica on August 30, 2011)

[cousinvinnie]

Very good Mica. Thanks for the update !!

[mica]

Of course, if it gets much darker (and blacker) it will really obscure the wood. It's always a trixy balance - sheer enough to show the grain or black enough to be black. If you had to pick a slightly bluish black with string grain showing or a more black-black that was less transparent, which would you choose?

[cousinvinnie]

Bluish is great. Something a little different. I just like the dark over maple. Bluish, purplish, blackish. All works for me.  
 
I say let 'er outta the stable if she passes staff requirements.
 
Thanks again Mica !!

[cousinvinnie]

Hi Mica, any more thoughts on the color ? I'm fine with the in-between to be honest. I'll bet it looks awesome as is. Thanks again !!!!

[mica]

Yeah, no prob. Last week I told Bob to continue with the clear top coats, but I guess I forget to tell you I got the message.  
 
It really does look awesome!