The Art of Putter Restoration (Scotty Cameron Putter Resto-Mod)

Welcome to this Instructable where I take you through the exciting journey of restoring and customizing a worn-out putter. As an avid golfer with a deep appreciation for custom putters, I delved into the fascinating world of putter craftsmanship. Through my research, I discovered the intricate details of their construction, the variety of materials used, advanced surface finishing techniques, and the diverse styles available.

Finding the Perfect Candidate:

My journey began with a hunt for the ideal putter, and I stumbled upon a diamond in the rough on Facebook Marketplace—a neglected Scotty Cameron putter. Despite its worn appearance, this putter not only possessed the style I desired but also featured the perfect material for my project—carbon steel. Join me as we breathe new life into this iconic Scotty Cameron gem!

Supplies

Tools

Razor Blade
Wire Brush
Benchtop Sandblaster with Glass Bead Media
Sandpaper 200/400/600 Grit
Heat Gun
Metal Pick
Bench Grinder with Belt Grinder Attachment
Angle Grinder with Cutoff Wheel
Paint Applicator Squeeze Bottle
Rubber Gloves
Air Compressor
Calipers
Ruler
Band Saw
Mini Belt Sander
Paint Brush
Crock Pot

Materials

Scotty Cameron Putter Head
Acrylic paint
Epoxy
Leather Wrap
Grip tape
Stabilized Burl Wood (typically used for knife scales)
Heat Shrink Tube
Nickel Plating Remover (Caswell product)
Cold Blue Liquid
Q-Tips
Degreaser
Paper towel
Acetone
WD-40

Step 1: Remove Lead Tape and Pant Fill

Stripping Away the Lead Tape

To start the restoration, delicately remove the stick-on lead tape from the putter using a razor blade. Lead tape is traditionally applied to adjust the weight, ensuring the perfect feel for each player when putting.

Preparing for a Fresh Start

Place the putter into an acetone bath. This will effectively loosen up the old paint, making it easier to remove. Allow the putter to soak for 1 hour, ensuring that the acetone thoroughly penetrates.

Removing Lingering Paint

After the acetone bath, any remaining paint can be effortlessly eliminated using a wire brush. Gently scrub the putter, focusing on areas with lingering paint until you achieve a clean, blank canvas.

Step 2: Smoothing Out Imperfections

Belt Sander Magic

Now, using a Scotch-Brite belt on a belt sander, carefully remove and blend out minor imperfections all over the putter head. Be mindful not to linger in one place; instead, ensure even sanding for a consistent finish.

Bead Blasting for a Smooth Finish

Place the putter head into a bead blaster and give it a blast over the entire surface. This process will provide a smooth finish, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the putter. The bead blasting technique adds a refined touch to your restoration project.

Step 3: Crafting a Custom Wood Insert

Follow these steps to create a custom insert for the countersunk slot on the back of the putter.

Select a stabilized wood burl for a unique touch.

Shaping the Wood Burl

Reduce the thickness of the wood burl using a band saw.
Cut the wood burl in half with the band saw.

Measuring and Cutting to Fit

Measure the countersunk slot on the back of the putter.
Transfer the measurement onto the wood burl.
Cut out the measured shape using the band saw.

Finalizing Dimensions

Using a belt sander, bring the wood insert to its final width and length.

Creating Fillets

Apply fillets to the corners of the insert.
Fold sandpaper over the edge of a straight piece of wood resting on the workbench. This will ensure the sand paper is perpendicular to the workbench.
Slide the wooden insert over it while rotating to achieve proper fillets.

Checking Fitment

Check the fitment often to ensure you don't sand too much.

Achieving a Flush Fit

Mill the thickness using sandpaper until it is the proper size to fit flush inside the slot on the putter.

Please reference the video for more clarity.

Step 4: Removing Nickel Finish

This step involves removing the factory nickel plating to reveal the carbon steel surface. Instructions for removing nickel plating from carbon steel vary depending on what product you use. I followed the instructions that were provided with this product: MetalX B-9 Nickel Stripper.

Dump the specified amount of nickel plating powder into water and mix until the powder dissolves in the container.
Place the putter into the solution and put the container into a crock pot to maintain the water at the proper temperature.
After three hours, remove the putter head. You'll notice black residue, a byproduct of the old nickel plating.
Bead blast the residue off the putter head for a clean and refreshed surface.

Step 5: Cold Bluing

Now that the putter has been stripped of its nickel plating and treated to a consistent bead blast finish, it's time to apply a cold blue finish for a sleek appearance.

Cold Blue Application

Degrease the putter head to ensure a clean surface for the cold blue application.
Using a paintbrush, apply cold blue over the entire putter head surface.
Rinse the putter in cold water.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you achieve your desired shade. (For reference, I applied the blue twice.)

Drying and Finishing Touch

Allow the surface to dry thoroughly.
To even out the cold blue coating, run steel wool over the entire putter surface in a consistent direction.
Soak the putter with penetrating oil for 24 hours. (For example, WD-40 can be used.)

Step 6: Leather Wrapping the Grip

For a distinctive finish, consider leather wrapping your putter grip. Follow these steps for a professional and personalized touch.

Find the Tapered Side:

Remove the plastic from your new grip tape, unfurl it, and identify the tapered side. This side usually comes with a small, sticky backing (depending on the brand). Remove the backing.

Follow the Handle: