How to Restore Lacquer on Horns
Many musical instruments are made from brass, which is a strong, light and attractive metal. Unfortunately, like many metals, brass tarnishes over time. To prevent this, instruments made from brass are often coated with clear lacquer. However, improper handling or polishing can damage or deteriorate the coating. Lacquer also does not completely protect the brass from exposure to the air, so an instrument that is well cared for but old can tarnish. To improve an instrument's appearance, it is possible to remove and restore the lacquer coat. However, lacquer is difficult to work with, which makes this project somewhat challenging.
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Things You'll Need
- Water
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Flour
- Soft cloth
- Painter's tape, masking tape
- Clear lacquer
Instructions
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Take the instrument completely apart. You may want to take photos of this process so you can remember how to put it back together later.
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2
Clean the instrument as much as possible and soak in very hot water. In most cases, this will soften or crack the lacquer coat and enable you to peel it off. Soak the instrument in a container to avoid letting lacquer pieces go down the drain. If this method does not work, acetone dissolves lacquer, but is a harsh chemical.
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3
Polish the instrument. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of white vinegar, then add flour until the mixture becomes a spreadable paste. While the instrument parts are still damp, spread the paste over the instrument and wait for about 15 minutes. Rinse off the paste in warm water and gently polish with a soft cloth. If this does not adequately polish the instrument, try ammonia diluted with water. This mixture is effective but more dangerous to use both for you and the instrument. Regardless of the method you use, do not use abrasives that can scratch the metal.
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4
Dry the instrument with a soft cloth. You can use a blowdryer to ensure that it is completely dry. Tape off any areas that you do not want to be lacquered, such as valves.
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Spray on a clear lacquer that is designed for brass. Keep the coat light and evenly distributed across the instrument pieces. Cover the entire instrument. A thin coat is better for your instrument's sound than a thick coat, so be light with the lacquer. Wait for the lacquer to dry completely, then remove the tape and reassemble the instrument.
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Tips & Warnings
Protect your workspace with newspaper or dropcloths when using lacquer.
If you make a mistake, it is easy to remove lacquer with lacquer thinner.
Wear gloves so you do not get fingerprints on the instrument.
Lacquer fumes are hazardous. Work in a well-ventilated area. You may want to wear a mask for protection.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
