Gibson “Watermellon” Custom Color

[BlindBo]

Question. Gibson has offered 335’s in a custom color they call “Watermellon”. While they apparently have never released the formula, ChatGPT says it’s approximately:
70% red
20-25 % magenta
And 5-10% amber

Where in the hell do you buy magenta dye???

IMG_0116.jpeg

I’d appreciate any advice.
Bo

[BlindBo]

Couldn’t find any premixed magenta. ChatGPT suggests mixing:
5 parts red and 1part blue.

[rcnewcomb]

I asked a different AI model to come up with a mixture using standard transtint dye colors. It said

Required TransTint Dyes
TransTint Orange (#6025): This will serve as your primary base color to capture the bright, clean amber-orange warmth of the body.

TransTint Bright Red (#6021) or Perfect Red: You will need a small amount of this to lean the orange into that distinct, pinkish-coral "watermelon" territory.

Recommended Mixing and Application Strategy
Achieving a clean, translucent look on maple requires careful testing. Here is the standard approach used by luthiers:

Establish a Base: Mix your TransTint dyes into a carrier liquid. For an even, non-grain-raising (NGR) application that flashes off quickly, denatured alcohol is preferred. Alternatively, you can mix the dyes directly into your clear coat (like nitrocellulose lacquer or a water-based finish) to spray it on as a toner.

Ratios: Start with a dominant mix of Orange, adding Bright Red drop by drop. The "watermelon" look relies on a subtle red undertone; adding too much red too quickly will turn the finish into a standard cherry red or a muddy brick color.

Test on Scrap Wood: Maple can absorb dye intensely. Always test your dye mix on a scrap piece of maple (ideally matching the type of maple on your project) and shoot a layer of clear coat over it to accurately judge the final, wet color depth.

[BlindBo]

Thanks so much Randall. This is certainly worth trying first. It is more simple than the ChatGPT formula. Which AI did you use?
I’m a month or so away from needing this and will report back.
Thanks again.
Bo

[rcnewcomb]

I used Claude.ai
I also use gemini.google.com