I just got a set of violin parts (end pin, tailpiece, chin rest and pegs) to install in place of the stock parts. All the parts are unfinished and I'd like to treat them to a gloss finish. I don't think a gloss finish will adversely affect most of these items. But, I wonder about the pegs. Is there any reason NOT to give the pegs a gloss finish? As always, any comments appreciated.
Rich can give you a more complete answer, but I believe those parts are usually left unfinished, or slightly polished. Also, the pegs and probably the endpn need to be fitted to work properly. Do you have the proper peg shaper and peghole reamer? Also, what is wrong with the stock parts? Are they impeding your learning progress?
Don't finish the pegs or they won't function properly. They work on friction and finishing them will likely make them stick. Rich, our regularly contributing violin luthier, will likely give you more detail. There are lots of online resources that might answer these general questions, if you don't want to wait 
Cross posted with Doug
Edited by - ChickenMan on 09/30/2024 16:58:49
The existing equipment is fine but I thought the natural wood pieces would enhance the aesthetics. Besides, I needed a project. Rich, do you concur with the responses? Have any further insight?
To install the set of fittings, you’ll need to make sure the peg holes are tapered correctly, then thin the pegs down with a peg shaver to assure a proper fit, length, and taper. Once the pegs are cut to the right length, you can mark the positions for the string holes. When everything is fitting properly, you can then apply a finish to the peg shafts. Be careful not to apply too thick a finish of whatever you use so as not to affect the fit. A bit of French polishing will generally do the trick well. Leaving the pegs unfinished looks just that—unfinished—especially when they are rosewood or boxwood, where the disparity is more obvious.
Just like the pegs, the endbutton should be tapered to fit the endbutton hole, which should be reamed to the correct taper. An improper fit can cause a split in the block. Only remove as much material as is needed to correct any discrepancies—whatever you remove is gone forever. If the holes are too large you’ll have to bush them, which is a much bigger job.
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