Why We Use Water-Based Finishes in Class (And Why They Dry So Fast)

One of the number one questions we get from students is:

“What type of finish do you use in class, and how does it dry so fast?”

We get it — it’s a little bit of a magic trick. But like most things at GBW, it’s not magic… it’s the result of years of trial, error, and a lot of learning.

A Little Backstory

For years, we used what we lovingly called our "violin finish" — an alcohol-based stain topped with a satin shellac. The look? Beautiful. Warm, rich, traditional. But like a lot of beautiful things, it was also a little fussy.

Depending on the weather — especially during Nashville’s famously humid summers — shellac could take longer to dry, or act a little temperamental. In a fast-paced, hands-on class environment, that just didn’t always fly.

Enter: Kelly Butler

After a lot of gentle nudging (okay, constant prodding) from our finishing guru and instructor Kelly Butler, we finally gave water-based satin finishes a real shot.

Like many traditional builders and painters, we were skeptical at first. Water-based? Would it look flat? Plastic-y? Would it even hold up?

But we’re happy to report — it completely won us over.

Why We Switched (And Haven’t Looked Back)

With some smart prep techniques, a few wood conditioning tricks, and the occasional additive to speed things up, our water-based finish has become the gold standard in class. We’re even (half-jokingly?) considering a sauna to help it dry even faster.

The result? A robust, professional-grade finish that looks incredible, feels great to the touch, and is ready to handle real-world wear — all within the time constraints of a class schedule.

Benefits of Water-Based Finishes vs. Traditional Solvent-Based Finishes

Here’s why we believe in it — not just for the classroom, but for the real world too:

🌍 Better for the Environment

Water-based finishes have significantly lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than traditional solvent-based products. That means fewer chemicals released into the air during application and drying — and a happier planet.

😷 Healthier for Humans

Less stink. Less eye-watering. Fewer headaches. In a busy classroom setting, we’re applying finish around a lot of people — and the water-based formula makes for a safer, more breathable workspace.

🛡️ Tough, Durable Finish

Modern water-based finishes have come a long way. Ours dries hard, smooth, and resistant to scuffs, moisture, and everyday wear. It’s a workhorse finish that doesn’t sacrifice aesthetics.

⚡ Faster Dry Times

This one’s big. In class, we’re on a schedule. Water-based finishes dry in a fraction of the time compared to shellac or oil-based products — especially with the right conditions and prep. That means students can build, finish, and take their instrument home — without waiting around for things to cure.

Final Thoughts

Switching to water-based finishes was a leap — but one we’re proud we took. We’re now delivering what we believe are some of the most beautiful, durable, and environmentally responsible finishes in the world — all within a single week of class time.

If you’re a traditionalist like we were, we get the hesitation. But don’t sleep on what modern water-based finishes can do — they might just surprise you.

Waterbased finishes at Guitar Build Workshop...do not look like this. :)