How do I fix a scratch?

How can i fix a deep scratch in my bass guitar?

• my bass guitar got a deep scratch that goes into the wood on the front of the body, obviously its not acoustic, and the finish is completely black, any ideas on how to fix the deep scratch? thanx

• Answer:

  It really depends on what the finish of your guitar is, and what they used on it. If its a satin finish or open wood, forget it. If its a gloss finish then you have to know what they used. There are a few different finishes they use to get a high gloss, lacquer, polyurethane and nitrocellulose are the three most common. Although all will dry and be able to be buffed out to a high gloss, if you use one of these on your guitar and your guitar has a different finish, the spot will always be a little different in color/hue. If thats not a huge concern to you, you can use whichever you like. You will need a few tools, some sand paper, elbow grease, and plenty of time. I included a link below. Its really a lot to explain. There may be some good videos on youtube as well. As long as the scratch didnt break the paint, you should be fine with this technique.