Try to leave a hard edge on the finish. Remember Stevie's finish flaked off naturally from years of wear and tear. This method would match the official replica of #1 made by Fender.

However, close examination of SRV photos reveals that the finish had wore off gradually, as if it had been sanded off. We will attempt to show more photos of this on the upcoming DVD and build another DIY guitar by painting a body with Nitro and try and replicating this type of wear.

Removing the finish Method #1

Use the template to also grind the scratches and gouges seen in the body. This will add to the overall visual accuracy.

More details on this technique will be available on the upcoming DVD.

Removing the finish Method #2
Another method of removing the finish is to burn it off. You can use a heat gun, but the heat may not be focused enough to heat only the areas you want to remove.

I used my stove top for large areas and a BBQ lighter to heat small areas. Put the flame as close as possible. Heat the finish until it pops, cracks or bubbles. Try not to burn the wood underneath the finish.