Thanks John.
I'm still undecided on the finish. I'm leaning toward either a deep transparent red or slight amber stain with nitro lacquer clear coats. I'm a little concered about the red since I'm not using a pickguard, which traditionally would be white or white pearloid. There might not be enough contrast in just the white bindings. The amber would be rich but subtle in contrast.
These are the things that keep me awake at night.
Peace,
Mark