Hey. I got an awesome band to sign my acoustic guitar this summer, but since then, their signatures have gotten smudged and it looks terrible! How can I get the permanent marker off without hurting the finish of my guitar?

I've tried water with no success. Any suggestions?!

Answer:
If the ink has stained the finish then it may have to be sanded and rebuffed. If the instrument is not Martin, Gibson or most USA brands then you can try to use Alcohol and a cotton swab then dry cloth. Definitely try in a small area first to make sure the finish is not real lacquer! The Alcohol is usually the best to remove the ink from a permanent marker.

Tim Lawson
http://www.timsguitar.com/