How to Perform a Full Refret on a Gibson Guitar

Important Note

This guide is intended for experienced luthiers. Refretting a guitar involves delicate, precise work. If done improperly, it can cause irreparable damage to your instrument. Make sure you have the necessary skills before attempting this procedure.

Tools You’ll Need

• Soldering iron
• Fret pullers or nippers
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Radius sanding block
• Super glue (for patching)
• Fret cutter
• Fret hammer
• Buffing tools
• Protective goggles
• Dust mask

Step-by-Step Refret Procedure

1. Preparation

• Remove the Old Frets: Use a soldering iron to gently heat each fret. This helps to soften any glue, minimizing the risk of chipping the wood during removal. Carefully use fret pullers to lift each fret from the slot.
• Clean the Fret Slots: Use a fine tool to remove any glue or debris from the slots, ensuring a clean and smooth surface for the new frets.

2. Select and Prepare the New Frets

• Measure Tang Size: Measure the tang (the part of the fret that fits into the slot) and the slot width to select the right size of fret wire.
• Cut to Length: Use fret cutters to trim each piece of fret wire to match the length required for each position on the neck.

3. Install the New Frets

• Shape the Fret Wire: Bend the new fret wire to match the radius of the guitar’s fingerboard using a radius block or fret bender.
• Seat the Frets: Place each fret into its slot, using a fret hammer to carefully tap them into place. Ensure each fret is seated evenly to avoid buzzing or uneven playability.

4. Finish the Fret Work

• Trim and File the Ends: Use a fret cutter to remove any excess wire, then file the fret ends flush with the edges of the fingerboard. This prevents sharp edges from affecting the player’s comfort.
• Sand and Polish: Smooth out the frets using progressively finer sandpaper, then use a polishing cloth or buffing wheel for a mirror-like finish. A well-polished fret makes bending notes easier and reduces friction.

5. Final Cleanup and Adjustments

• Patch Fingerboard Chips: Apply super glue to any chips that may have occurred during fret removal, and sand these areas until they are flush with the rest of the fingerboard.
• Condition the Fingerboard: Clean the fingerboard thoroughly and apply a conditioner or oil to enhance the wood’s appearance and durability.
• Re-string and Adjust Setup: After re-stringing the guitar, check the action and adjust as needed. If the nut has worn down, consider replacing it for optimal string height.

Pro Tips for a Better Refret

• Apply Heat Carefully: Too much heat can damage the wood or binding around the frets. Work slowly to avoid scorching the fingerboard.
• Focus on Consistency: Pay close attention to maintaining even fret heights and a consistent radius along the fretboard. Small variations can impact the guitar’s playability.
• Work Slowly and Precisely: Rushing through any step can lead to mistakes that are difficult to fix later. Regularly inspect your work to catch and correct issues before moving on.

A proper refret can breathe new life into a guitar, improving both its tone and playability. This detailed process requires patience and skill but can be deeply rewarding for those who master it. If you’re uncertain about performing a refret yourself, consider consulting a professional luthier to ensure the best results.

For any questions or to schedule a refret service, contact West Music for expert assistance and support in maintaining your guitar.