Couldn't agree more Strangeways.  I too have been known to be anal on projects (Gibo has taken the piss outta me in the past on some of my old arcade cabinet and artwork projects for this reason )
Up until the last few days, my restoration path was (and may still be) going to be full monty.  Full cab prep and fresh stencilling included.  But for what ever reason, have been thinking of other different or unusal ways to attack my first SS restore.  Hence, this thread... and hopefully photos of others who have done what I've discussed for perusal.

Interesting topic as you said and good to see it from all angles.