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Finishing an AllParts jaguar neck for a build. Sanded it with 1200 and have been applying coats of water-based satin top coat with a foam applicator. Feel of the finish is good but the application leaves it looking "ridged". I told myself it was fine but it is kind of disappointing. How can i fix this?

If you post some pictures we might be able to help you. I’m guessing it should all level out with some mindful wet sanding.

https://flic.kr/p/2meAz55

Shows up in the light. Wet sanding would probably fix.

To me these look like rough sanding marks from lower grit sandpaper (60/80/120). To get those out I think you’d either have to apply a shitload of clear coat and sand back or, better solution, sand down and (watch it, here it comes) start from scratch.

Before you do that please wait, as I’m sure others will chime in.

I haven't sanded that though, i haven't used any grit lower than 1200 on it. The last few coats haven't been sanded in between either, its just marks from using the applicator. I suppose i could sand it down and opt to spray instead or something.

I see, if you’re sure the wood was dead flat without those lines before finishing then I’d say yes, it was the applicator. In that case I’d wet sand with a very fine grit and a small sanding block. A pencil eraser makes a good small sanding block. Stay away or be super careful with the edges, it’s super easy to get sand throughs. Good luck

I would rub it down with 0000 steel wool and see how it feels. My favorite neck finish is sand with 320, 4 coats of TruOil and buff it down with 0000 steel wool... better/smoother than any poly or lacquer finish. No need for super fine grit IF you don't have any sand scratch showing from courser grit.

ken