Replacing Pickguards (Scratch Plates)
on Acoustic Guitars

Removing & Installing Pickguards - Depending on the instrument some pickguards may be a cinch to remove while others stick quite well and require care to remove. The first thing you want to know is what finish is on the instrument and whether the pickguard is stuck to finish or bare wood.

Most pickguards require heating to soften the adhesive prior to removal, a task that warrants caution as overheating lacquer and delicate finishes can cause them to blister and create an enormous problem. I prefer a hairdryer to soften the adhesive.
Finishes, like Taylors U.V. cured finish and other polyester finishes withstand heat far better than lacquer or shellac.
I've used a number of items to help aid the removal from a plastic putty blade to dental floss or thin fishing line which will slide beneath the guard.
Sticky residue left behind can usually be removed with Naphtha, which would be safe on a variety of finishes though a bit slow for the more durable surfaces.
Once the pickguard is removed you will usually find a "tan line", a change in color caused by light particularly if the instrument has some age to it. While this tan line can help you correctly position the replacement guard it also means those who would prefer not to have a pickguard (or would like a smaller one) would be faced with an ugly spot.

The "Tan" Line

Custom Pickguards-   There are many different patterns of tortoise available as well as numerous other materials that are suitable for making different colored guards. Replacement pickguards can be made to replicate the originals shape from nearly any material suitable.

Clear Pickguards- For those who don't prefer pickguards but are afraid damaging the finish you may opt to install a clear pickguard. Clear pickguard material is much thinner than regular celluloid pickguard material and applies much like a sticker, it is easily cut with a pair of scissors. If you are a do-it-yourselfer you can order this material directly from Stewart MacDonald, cut out the desired shape, peel and stick.

New Greven Tor-tis Pickguard

Pre-made Pickguards - Most of what you'll find in the $5-$10 range today are basic, stamp cut pickguards with little to no pizzazz. That's fine for some instruments but I personally would want a nicer pickguard on a fine instrument as it is such a focal point.
Pickguards can be made from any suitable material, I have even used drum covering material with great success.  I also stock Greven® Tor-Tis pickguards by Turtleworks® for in house replacements. This is some of the best looking material around today in my opinion and I stock all common color options.
LMII.com carries this product for online purchase.

Thicker Vintage Pickguards - Thicker pickguards can also pose a problem, a common issue is celluloid decay which causes them to crumble. It begins with a crazed, shattered like appearance which advances to the point of disintegration. These too must be replaced but unfortunately an exact material match is not usually available and we must use what's available.
What do I recommend when replacing a large thick pickguard? Well my personal opinion is to opt for a tortoise shell or busy pattern. A huge solid black pickguard is not particularly attractive, but that's merely my opinion. You can go with purple if that's what makes you happy!

Thicker Pickguards

ArchTop or Floating Pickguards - These are also made from thicker material, usually around .100-.125 thick as opposed to the thinner material used on many flat top guitars and attached to the top by brackets and screws. These are obviously quite easy to remove and replace yourself.
You will find some pickguard suppliers which are set up with patterns and equipment that allow them to manufacturer them quickly and cost efficiently.

Inlaid Pickguards - Want something truly personal? Most inlay artist can give your instrument a truly personal touch by inlaying a pattern of your choice into a pickguard. I do not personally offer inlay services.

WD Music in Florida has a large variety available and will make these using a pattern or original. Terrapin Guitars also has custom pickguards and materials.

Shrinking Pickguards & Top Cracks - See the Martin guitar pickguard replacement article.