I just purchased a beautiful new 2008 MIM strat that I'm hotrodding with a Duncan '59 humbucker in the neck position. So that means that I'll have to route out the singe coil sized slot in the body to fit the humbucker. I've already ordered a custom pickguard from Warmoth.

Knowing that there's no room for error here, I wanted some advice. Can anyone give me a detailed, step-by-step explanation as to what the best way is to route for the humbucker (of course I want to avoid scratching/chipping the paint, I want a steady cut, etc.). Also, what type of paint should I use to seal up the bare wood (knowing that I don't want anything metallic in the paint to interact with the pickup)?

I'm pretty handy, but I just want to make sure I get all my ducks in a row before I begin so that everything goes smoothly.

Thanks!!!