Well...hmmm...you really can't go wrong at this point. If you do apply the vinyl and change your mind later, it might be a bear to remove. Beyond that, it will most likely dampen it a tad. The reason that traditional wraps are 'ok' for most drummers and manufacturers is that they are fairly stiff (relatively speaking) and are applied fairly tight to the shell. That reduces the barrier to vibration transmission from the wood. When Slingerland (and a few bonged out drummers) wrapped their shells in blue jean material and such, they didn't consider the overall impact of blanketing the shells (which is what they were doing in effect). This is my take on it. Others may agree or disagree, depending on their historical perspective.

Blanketing is a better word. That's exactly what I was wondering, but with the MDF shells, they are harder than wood, and maybe a tad bit of blanketing wouldn't hurt.

Hey poppy, have you gone to the Premier forum and aked those guys what the shells are?

I have gone there and they are as perplexed as I am. They couldnt believe it.

Damn poppy, you are the only person on the planet that has ever stripped one of those shells, and now the whole world is looking at you as the new Premeir shell expert.....Excited....Bowing....Laughing H

Premier shell expert huh? LoLoLoLo Im just a guy with a drum problem!

I have thought hard about sending these to you to fix up and give to a underprivileged kid.

You know, that is not a bad idea. Have you ever tried the process I used for a few over the years? It is time consuming, but it is really the absolute cheapest way to refinish, other than staining.

1) Decide on a color

2) Stain the shell in a similar color. This is something you have to think about for a minute.

3) Apply a base coat of lacquer or poly, and I am getting to where I prefer lacquer.

4) Then, while the lacquer is still wet, sprinkle the first layer of glitter all over. This is a messy process, but if you stick wotj over and over, after about 4 coats/layers, you will start to see the full effect of the glitter. It is truly a site to behold. The color is just simply amazing, and no picture you will ever take can fully show off the incredible effect and depth.

mcjnic also helped me to further refine the technique by suggesting I put just a kiss of the base stin in the first few layers. It adds a depth and character you could not get any other way. Lightly sand between coats and then for the top two or three layers use clear gloss and to top it off, after the final coat/layer, use a good, clear high gloss poly. This is only for the very last as it will add a good solid strong coating on the top.

Like I said, it is time consuming, but the effects are so dramatic, you may never use a wrap again, if it something you know will not devalue because of it.

Poppy, I've seen photos of jonnistix's glitter finishes. They're truly stunning.

If you're still thinking of wrapping, though, and you don't want to spend a ton of money, I noticed that Jammin' Sam has a special on White Pearl wrap. They're charging $149 for enough to do a five-piece kit. Not bad!

I have a white marine pearl slingy expresso kit, but thats the best price ive heard for real wrap.