Paint:

Finally back at this. I reconsidered flat black for the back and sides. The grain isn't anything special but neither is flat black.

As a compromise I decided the front of the head stock will be flat black, which ties it into the car, but the neck, back and sides will be natural.

I am using Tru Oil. This is my 1st coat. I have seen videos where up to 6 coats have been applied.