GUNSMITHING AND TOOL MAKING BIBLE

(Tuis.) #1

CLEAR GLOSS FURNITURE LACQUER


This is a transparent amber colored lacquer that dries hard with a very high gloss. It dries dust proof in
a matter of minutes but should not be sanded for at least an hour after application. This lacquer, even if
scratched or dented, will not chalk or scratch white. The lacquer will not be seriously damaged. The
final coat may be rubbed with any of the common rubbing agents to a high gloss. It may be used
successfully for any finishing job regardless of purpose. It may be used to finish all types of furniture,
wood products, and surfaces that are subjected to moisture and heat. It is considered a general all
round finishing material.


FURNITURE LACQUER SEALER


This is a special purpose lacquer that, because of its composition, is used exclusively for sealing the
surface of the wood. It is not as clear and transparent as the clear lacquers, because of the solids
added to it. However, when applied to the surface, it does not affect the color of the finish. It can be
sanded smooth very easily, and the lacquer remaining seals the surface in preparation of the next
operation. When several coats are sprayed on an open grain wood, the sealer acts as a filler and fills
the open pores of the wood as well. Lacquer sealer should be applied to the surface after the stain or
filler has dried. The succeeding coats of clear, glossy lacquer is applied directly over the sealer coat.


LACQUER THINNERS


Thinner is the liquid that dilutes the lacquer and makes it suitable for spraying or brushing. As has
already been noted, these thinners are a combination of many chemicals. Each manufacturer of lacquer
has his own peculiar formula for his thinners. So, best results are assured when the thinner used is
made by the manufacturer of the lacquer. If another brand of thinner is used, it may not dilute the lacquer
as required, with the consequent effect that the finish will not act properly on the surface. Good flowing,
spreading, and covering qualities may be sacrificed when the correct thinners are not used. Lacquer
thinner is water white in color, and it should be used to dilute whatever type of lacquer you may be
using. Some lacquers, like sealers and undercoats, require more thinner than the transparent glossy or
flat lacquers. Under normal conditions, about 30% of thinner should be added to a lacquer to get the
correct spraying mixture. Of course, experience will dictate the correct proportion to


APPLYING LACQUER WITH A SPRAY GUN


The best lacquering results are gotten when the lacquer is sprayed to the surface. Primarily, lacquer is a
spraying material. Its fast drying qualities make the sprayer indispensable for obtaining good results.
Before the actual spraying technique is described, let us describe briefly the equipment and conditions
necessary for adequate spraying.


A spraying outfit is an excellent piece of equipment to own, especially if you have the appropriate space
and the appropriate ventilating system.


With either type of spraying, you can get pinholes by spraying too soon with the second coat, so the

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