I have a 20" Bass drum; 12" and 14" TomToms, much used in the 70's & 80's, but stored since. I've been persuaded by friends to show them daylight again and bring them back to life. Unfortunately, they suffered badly during my playing days, and although I had hoped they could be tidied up with a lot of cleaning and polishing, I'm afraid they're really too far gone for that, as the lacquer has been badly scratched and chipped on all 3, particularly the shell of the 12" where it has been deeply damaged by the rim of the snare.
I guess I have the choice of removing all of the finish, sanding back and having the shells re-lacquered, or wrapping them. I've read many comments regarding the safety of disturbing the original nitro-cellulose lacquer and the difficulty in replacing it to reflect the original finish, but it does seem a shame to cover it with a wrap, as they were simply beautiful when new. I'm in Norfolk, England, and wonder if it could be a job for a French Polisher / Furniture Restorer, since I can easily do the stripping and rebuilding.
I'd appreciate any advice or comments, and also whether it's worthwhile having my snare re-plated: a Ludwig 400 bought at the same time, but extensively pitted and rusted, not helped by several years at sea! (but still sounding great ....)
Robbie