Relic vs Future Relic – Letting Your Guitar Tell Your Story

Relic guitars are one of those things people tend to feel strongly about.

And that’s fair enough.

If you like the look and feel of a worn-in instrument straight away, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. A well-done relic can feel comfortable, broken-in, and familiar from day one.

But for me, a guitar should tell a story - your story.

Not one that’s already been written.

The Problem With Pre-Worn Guitars

A relic guitar comes with its history already built in:

• Worn edges

• Dings and knocks

• Faded finishes

It looks like it’s been played for years… even if it hasn’t.

And while that can look great, I’ve always felt there’s something missing. Those marks don’t mean anything yet. They’re not tied to gigs, rehearsals, or late-night sessions. They’re just… there.

For some players, that’s perfect.

For me, I’d rather earn it.

What I Prefer - A Guitar That Evolves With You

That’s where my Future Relic finish comes in.

Instead of artificially ageing a guitar, I use a thin skin, water-based finish that’s designed to wear in naturally over time.

If you play it regularly, you’ll start to see:

• Soft wear where your arm rests

• Subtle fading where you pick

• Edges beginning to break through

Usually within a year or two of real use, the guitar starts to develop its own character.

And the best part?

It’s completely unique to how you play.

A Hidden Layer

Underneath the top coat, there’s a secondary colour.

As the finish wears in the most played areas, that colour slowly begins to show through - not in a forced or artificial way, but gradually, organically.

No two guitars will ever wear the same.

Some will stay clean and pristine if they’re looked after.

Others will start to show their life pretty quickly.

That’s the whole point.

Built to Be Played (Or Kept Clean)

The Future Relic finish isn’t about forcing wear - it’s about allowing it.

If you want to keep your guitar looking new, you absolutely can.

If you want to gig it hard and let it age naturally, it’ll reward you for it.

There’s no right or wrong way.

So… Relic or Not?

Relic guitars are fine - if that’s your thing.

But I believe there’s something more meaningful about a guitar that changes with you over time.

The marks, the wear, the small imperfections - they should come from your playing, not from the workshop.

That’s what makes an instrument personal.

A guitar shouldn’t arrive with its story already written.

It should start fresh - and pick up that story along the way.

That’s what the Future Relic finish is all about.