Refinishing Advice

If the existing finish is lacquer, all you’d need to do is basic prep work, like filling scratches. I’d probably spray a barrier coat of Seal Coat dewaxed shellac to protect against contaminants like silicone.

Colored lacquer is paint. Paint is simply a carrier and a pigment. The lacquer carrier makes for fast drying, easy rubbing and repair of defects. Lacquer dries very fast and melts into itself, unlike most other finishes. The only reason to sand lacquer between coats is to remove dust nibs or other defects.

Colored lacquer is available from real paint stores and wood finishing suppliers. I buy M.L. Campbell products from a local Pratt and Lambert paint store. It’s sold as a “pro” product, not on the shelf in the retail area, you’ll need to ask for it.

Be aware, that gloss black on any kind of paint will show every defect, so do your prep work!

-- - Real men read directions

Lacquer isn’t paint. That’s why it’s called lacquer. Lacquer is a resin and has a differrent chemistry than paint. Paint is going to be oil or water based. Lacquer is much harder than paint. That’s why it shines up so well. It’s also why it is used on pianos. Paint would kill the sound, but lacquer doesn’t.

Paint will be easier. Lacquer is the “finer” finish, but, as stated above….do your prep work as it will show the wrinkles on a gnats butt.

-- arborial reconfiguration specialist

Cool, thanks for the responses. Most helpful.