A Little About Finishing

I have always used sanding sealer on most projects. I do because the brand lacquer I use doesn’t sand as easily as the sealer. That said, on my guitars, I don’t use sealer. I feel that the finish is somewhat tougher without sealer, so either way, it’s a trade off. I don’t have any scientific evidence to back this up, but I do have over 40 years experience spraying lacquer (I know, I don’t look that old—-I started realy, really young!) This works for me. Like you say, with other brands of lacquer, that may very well be true. I used Superior Coatings for years. I believe they merged with Gemini a few years ago. That’s what I use now, except on guitars. For that I use Behlens.
You know what they say—-That’s the way I’ve always done it! and of course—If it ain’t broke don’t fix it!

Seriously, I am open to change. You’ve made a good point.——Thanks

-- Kent Shepherd * The goal is-----More Tools!

Thanks for bringing this topic up – it made me go and research on ‘sanding sealer’ – I’ve personally never used it – but then again, I’ve never used Lacquer either.

so from what I got, sanding sealer is used as an undercoat because it dries faster and sands easier then lacquer/poly sos it’s easier to get a smooth surface faster on which you can put your top/final coat with a protective finish such as lacquer/poly. is that the idea?

-- When in doubt - There is no doubt - Go the safer route.

I agree with you that sealers may weaken the finish. It seems that one rep. actually said that is the purpose of sanding sealer it weeking it enough to make it easier to sand.

I love Gemini, I use to use it but now I use Sherwin Williams’ brand.

Alot of time the best finish is the one you know how to use and work. If it works for you and you get good results, then don’t change it.

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PurpLev, that’s the idea. Most lacquers do the same. I don’t use any poly., but I believe that is a little harder to sand, so a sealer may work better on those.

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I’ve also always used a sanding sealer before lacquer. I quess just a habit that I took from all the cabinet shops I have always worked at. They have always ud=sed sanding sealers. But I guess I need to look into the newer Lacquers and see what they recommend. I’m like Kent, If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it…...............LOL

-- Jerry--A man can never have enough tools or clamps