How to Properly Apply Lacquer Paint

Difficulty:A little difficult for the novice, okay for intermediate.

Time:This will vary with amount of work, but sanding between coats is time-consuming.

Lacquer paint has a different composition from regular wall paint, so application is different as well. Achieving the hard finish and shine you’re looking for isn’t difficult.

Step 1 - Choose Your Paint

There are a few different kinds of lacquer paint so make sure you choose one that fits with the surface you are painting. Also think about if lacquer is the right kind of paint for your project. For example, enamel paint may be better for painting metal.

Step 2 - Prepare the Area

Position a drop cloth underneath whatever you are painting. Also, since lacquer paint is fairly toxic, make sure you are painting where there is fresh air flow. You may want to wear a respirator that covers your face to further protect you from the fumes, especially if you have opted for using spray paint (this may be a better option if you are painting a car, motorcycle or anything large). Before painting, make sure to get all of the dust off a project that has been sanded.

Lacquer paint is very flammable. Do not use it near an open flame. Extinguish all gas pilots and space heaters

Step 3 - Apply Primer

Priming increases the chances of your paint job looking its best. Make sure you choose a lacquer primer and that it comes from the same range as the paint, this way you will not accidentally mix products. This is important because if you apply a different kind of clear coat on top of your paint, your color could be ruined.

If you are priming metal, spray the primer on in slow, controlled strokes in one direction. If you are working on wood make sure the surface is clean and smooth; use sandpaper to achieve this if necessary. Apply an even layer of primer. If you’re using a brush, make sure your strokes go in one direction and leave enough time for the primer to dry before moving on. When spraying, push the button slightly to the left of the object, then spray left to right, and go slightly beyond the right edge of the object, then leave off the button. Then depress the button again and spray from right to left holding the spray button beyond the edge of the object. Continue with this on/off, left/right spray motion until the object is completely covered.

Step 4 - Apply the Lacquer Paint

Just as you did with the primer, apply the lacquer paint in long, even strokes. Paint your object in the same direction and make your strokes overlap a bit; this eliminates streaks in your paint job. Make sure you read the directions carefully and adhere to the drying time. The paint must be completely dry before you do anything else. The weather will have a lot to do with how long it takes for your lacquer paint to dry. On a more humid day you'll have to wait a little longer to complete your project.

Step 5 - Smooth the Surface

Sand the surface again to ensure it is as smooth as possible. After sanding you may choose to add another layer of lacquer paint before you move onto the clear coat. It has been recommended to put several coats of lacquer finish, sanding between coats, when painting cars with lacquer paint. This will also be helpful if painting metal garden furniture.

Step 6 - Add Clear Coat

This is the finishing coat that will seal your paint job and give it extra shine. Apply just as you have the lacquer paint - in long strokes always painting in the same direction. Wait until completely dry before wiping with a clean cloth to complete your project.

Edward Kimble, professional painter and author of Interior House Painting Blog, contributed to this article.