1. Gather Materials:
- Small wooden blocks (about the same size as the dent)
- Damp cloth
- Iron
- Soft, thin cloth (such as a cotton handkerchief)
- Water spray bottle
- Sandpaper (320-grit and 600-grit)
- Guitar polish (optional)
2. Prepare Your Guitar:
- Place the guitar on a stable, flat surface, with the dented area facing up.
- Remove the strings to prevent damage during the repair process.
3. Hydrate the Dent:
- Lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water.
- Place the damp cloth over the dent and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the wood and make it more pliable.
4. Apply Heat:
- Heat an iron to a low or medium setting (around 150-170 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Cover the dent with a thin, soft cloth to protect the guitar's finish.
- Gently iron the cloth over the dent in small circular motions for a few minutes. The heat helps soften the wood and lift the dent.
5. Place Wooden Blocks:
- Carefully insert small wooden blocks inside the guitar through the sound hole.
- Position the blocks so that they gently push the dent from the inside.
6. Apply Pressure:
- Rest the guitar face-down on the blocks so that the dent receives gentle pressure from the inside.
- Leave the guitar in this position for a few hours to overnight, allowing the wood to settle back into place.
7. Repeat Steps 3-6:
- If necessary, repeat steps 3-6 until the dent is significantly lifted or completely gone. Be patient and avoid applying too much heat or pressure to prevent damage.
8. Sand the Area:
- Once the dent is removed, sand the area lightly with 320-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.
- Be careful not to sand the surrounding finish.
9. Final Sanding:
- Use 600-grit sandpaper to further smooth the repaired area. This will ensure a seamless finish and prepare it for polishing.
10. Apply Guitar Polish (Optional):
- Apply a small amount of guitar polish to the repaired area and surrounding finish to enhance the appearance and protect the wood.
11. Re-string the Guitar:
- Re-string the guitar and tune it.
Remember, guitar repair can be delicate, so always proceed with caution and precision. If the dent is severe or you're unsure how to proceed, consult a professional guitar repair technician for assistance.