How can you achieve a subtle shading effect without creating a sunburst effect? The techniques for creating shading and a sunburst effect are different. To achieve a non-opaque shade, a slightly colored lacquer with 3 to 5% dye in a recipe of 65% lacquer and 35% solvent (or water for water-based lacquers) should be used. An ultra-penetrating alcohol-based stain can also be used to replace the dye. Before beginning, it is important to work on a wood sample to ensure that the resulting color matches the desired color. 

To create shading, the stained wood must first be sealed, and then very thin coats of lacquer should be applied instead of thick coats that would make the surface opaque. Apply as many coats as needed to achieve the desired effect. It is important to allow sufficient time for each coat to dry properly before applying another. In general, 15 minutes is enough time to apply another coat without needing to sand. Shading is used to even out the wood tone, which can vary on a guitar, especially if it is made of multiple pieces of wood.