Amazing compound called lacquer gives any object, including wood, the ideal finish. Whether you choose a matte finish on top or a shiny and sparkling layer underneath, both are quite durable but may flake off after years of use and abuse. This is the reason that gradually applying a second coat is required. The substantial covering serves to safeguard the underlying wood. It can be difficult to paint over lacquer if you choose to do so. If lacquer is not applied correctly, it will not produce the results it is intended to. This is particularly valid if you intend to use two layers. The second coat doesn't adhere to previously lacquered surfaces as readily as woodwork does.
After a layer of paint, all kinds of woodwork and metal surfaces receive a finish called lacquer. Because it lasts longer on these surfaces and leaves a firm, lustrous finish, lacquer is the finish type that people most frequently employ on wood. This is due to the fact that lacquer finish, unlike other water-based or oil-based paints, contains resin, which gives woodworks the ideal finish.
Because lacquer uses fewer chemicals during production, it is more preferable to apply it on furniture. Additionally, it has shellac, which is an alcohol-based component. When lacquer is applied, it is what gives materials their glossy and gleaming sheen.
Step By Step Process Of Painting Over High Gloss Lacquer
Adding paint over lacquer is totally feasible. Because it makes sure that your paint lasts longer without breaking off, it is actually preferred. However, in order to guarantee that the finish is optimal and the paint adheres to it effectively, suitable procedures and safety precautions must be used.
Items You Will Need
- Paint, Primer & Wet Rag
- 150-Grit Sandpaper
- 300-Grit Sandpaper
- Paintbrush Or Spray Gun
- Safety Gear
Step 1: Apply The Lacquer
If lacquer hasn't previously been put to the surface of your woodwork, you'll need to do that first. There are many kinds of lacquer that you can use depending on the surface that you are painting. These consist of:
- Water-based Lacquer
On raw wood, this kind of lacquer is typically applied. Compared to varnish, this is significantly safer and better for the environment. You will need to apply roughly three layers of water-based lacquer to get a beautiful finish. It must be completed 24 hours after applying each layer. - Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Typically, this kind of lacquer is used on wood surfaces that require a coat of vivid paint. However, because it dries so quickly, beginners are not advised to use this kind of lacquer. - Acrylic Lacquer
Acrylic lacquer is now utilized on woodwork, despite being more frequently used on autos. But this is extremely dry lacquer paint. - Urushiol-based Lacquer
It is an acid, alkaline, and water-resistant lacquer that is powerful and long-lasting. Unlike other kinds of lacquer, this one dries quickly and functions best in dry, humid environments.
Step 2: Identify The Sheen
If you intend to paint over woodwork that has already been lacquered, you must determine the shine of the wood. You must feel the texture of the lacquered surface with your hand in order to do this. This surface has a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish if it is glossy and reflective. It is assumed that a flat finish exists if the surface is rough and textured.
Step 3: Prepare The Area
The location where you will be working with the woodwork must then be prepared. Keep all the supplies, such as a wet towel, paint, and a brush, nearby. Make sure the woodwork is free of dust both inside and outside.
Step 4: Sand The Surface
It's time to sand the surface right now. Use 150-grit sandpaper if you are dealing with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. However, you must use 300-grit sandpaper if you are working with a flat finish. The woodwork is helped to buff off and produce friction with the finer 300 grit sandpaper without losing luster. It's also unlikely to harm anything.
Step 5: Clean The Dust
There will probably be a lot of dust and grime on the surface when you've finished sanding it. Now is the time to remove all of the dust from the woodwork with a moist rag. Avoid soaking the rag in too much water; it should only be damp, not drenched. The wood will become saturated if there is too much moisture. You don't want to do this.
Step 6: Apply A Layer Of Primer
The primer should now be applied. You should use a brush to apply a thin layer of primer, whether it is latex, water-based, or oil-based. To make sure the primer penetrates each grain of the woodwork, you should proceed anticlockwise to the grain. When painting over lacquer, this is the step that must be done perfectly because it is so important. To guarantee consistency in the overall color of the woodwork, make sure the primer and lacquer paint are the same color. Even if you see spots or bumps after the first primer coat has dried, apply the second layer in the same manner.
Step 7: Wait For The Primer To Dry
Additionally, you must permit the primer to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the second layer. To find out the precise drying time for primers, make sure to read the instructions or user handbook. You should notice that the surface is not sticky when your primer is dry. Small lumps are also likely to be present. This indicates that it is now appropriate to apply the second coat of paint.
Step 8: Apply The Paint
It's time to paint the lacquered surface after priming, sanding, and allowing it to dry. Any sheen of latex or oil paint can be used to paint the woodwork. It will be simple to paint over the lacquered surface now that you've primed and sanded it. You must, however, take care to paint in the same direction that the priming was applied. Additionally, you can add another coat of paint to hide any bare spots if you find any. But before applying this following layer of paint properly, make sure you give each layer time to cure.
Step 9: Sand The Surface Again Before Applying Second Layer Of Paint
Before applying the second layer of paint, it is advised to sand the surface once more and give it the proper amount of time to dry. This will make it simple for the woodwork to take paint. Your paint may take longer or shorter to dry depending on the weather. Sanding in between coats of paint improves the paint job, especially if you are painting outdoor furniture.
Step 10: Apply A Clear Coat
Let your second layer of paint dry completely before adding a clear coat on top. Although applying a clear coat at the end is optional, most wood lovers advise it since it protects the paint and gives the surface a glossy sheen.