How to Apply the First Coat of Wood Lacquer

A good lacquer finish brings out the rich depth and inner beauty of a piece of wood in ways that other clear finishes simply cannot match. When finishing fine or expensive pieces of furniture nothing beats a well-done lacquer finish.While a proper lacquer finish is time consuming, it is not terribly difficult as long as certain guidelines are followed. The first coat of wood lacquer sets the stage for all of the following coats and needs to be applied properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spray Lacquer or Liquid Lacquer
• Good Paint Brush
• 100 Grit, 150 Grit, 220 Grit Sand Paper

How to Apply the First Coat of Wood Lacquer

1. Make certain your wood is clean and properly sanded. For best results wipe your wood surface with a damp rag and allow the water to dry. Then sand the raised grain of the wood with varying grits of sand paper, beginning with a coarse grain and ending with a 220 grain paper so your surface is as smooth and unblemished as possible to start the process.

2. Do not apply a lacquer finish over paint or other topcoats as the lacquer will soften and ruin most other finishes. Lacquer should be applied directly to sanded wood surfaces. Lacquer dries quickly and can be applied with a spray can or brushed on using a good quality natural bristle brush, working quickly and brushing with the grain. Do not attempt to put on a heavy first coat of lacquer -- several additional coats will follow the first coat.

3. Lightly sand your dried lacquer finish using a 220 grit paper, sanding with the grain of the wood if sanding by hand. Use your fingers to feel for any rough or uneven spots and carefully sand until your piece is as smooth as possible and appears even all over. A good sanding job on a light initial coat of wood lacquer is an essential first step in the lacquer process.

Tips & Warnings

• Good wood preparation is the key to a good first coat of wood lacquer. Sand your piece to a beautiful smooth finish before applying your first coat of wood lacquer.
• Do not try to put on too heavy of a first coat of lacquer and be certain to sand lightly with the grain of the wood using a 220 grit paper in preparation for your second coat of lacquer.