Best Way To Lacquer

[rosswaa]

Well basically, iv just nitromorsed my frame

and am going to be painting it black

but last time i resprayed a frame it was great untill the lacquer went on

the outcome was all sort of dusty is the only way to describe it

are there any guides on how to lacquer properly as it doesnt seem to mention a whole lot about it on the painting guide

thanks for your help

Ross

[johnglazer]

Well basically, iv just nitromorsed my frame

and am going to be painting it black

but last time i resprayed a frame it was great untill the lacquer went on

the outcome was all sort of dusty is the only way to describe it

are there any guides on how to lacquer properly as it doesnt seem to mention a whole lot about it on the painting guide

thanks for your help

Ross

First you want to make sure the surface is clean before applying lacquer. Wipe the frame down with a rag or tack cloth (basically a slightly sticky cloth) to remove any residues or dust.

I assume you are using spray lacquer. When you apply it, don't use a 'back and forth' motion. Start off the end of the frame, and in a constant motion, bring it across the frame (whichever tube you are spraying at the moment) and off the edge. This will allow for more even coats. If you spray back and forth, without going off the edge, the coat will be thicker where you change directions. Make a couple/few passes for each coat.

Let it dry for a couple/few hours. If you rush it, it won't turn out well. Then lightly sand the surface with a fine grit sandpaper, then clean with rag/tack cloth.

Apply a second coat in same manner as first.

Repeat for each coat.

After the final coat has dried, you can use a fine steel wool to create a sheen, and to remove visible imperfections. Finally, wipe down frame with paint thinner or mineral spirits to remove oil and dust.

Just remember to take your time with it. Don't try to get it done as quickly as possible, do it right.

Edited August 23, 2007 by johnglazer

[rosswaa]

After the final coat has dried, you can use a fine steel wool to create a sheen, and to remove visible imperfections. Finally, wipe down frame with paint thinner or mineral spirits to remove oil and dust.

on this part what sort of steel wool for the sheen iv seen ultra fine steel wool but it says that it creates a matt/ satin effect, would this matter?

also i really think this deserves some kudos and maybe we could use this and some pictures of my frame being lacquered (if it turns out well),

and put it in the wiki along with the painting, because i have seen quite alot of people with this problem

thanks alot

[rosswaa]

on this part what sort of steel wool for the sheen iv seen ultra fine steel wool but it says that it creates a matt/ satin effect, would this matter?

right this part iv just re read a few times and it dosent make sense so ignore it, iv ordered some of the finest grade steel wool you can get so should turn out pretty well

ill do a step by step picture thing of the lacquering and post along with this guide to make a decent tutorial, let me now if you think its a good idea?

although i wont be painting the frame untill about the 7th so should be on lacquering on the 11th/12th of september haha

so might not be for a good few weeks yet

[johnglazer]

Remember that it is a good idea to use a lubricant with the steel wool to avoid damaging the lacquer finish. There are a few different brands that make a lubricant specifically for using steel wool. You can also apply paste wax after you are finished to give it a little bit more gloss.

Good luck with it!

[rosswaa]

Remember that it is a good idea to use a lubricant with the steel wool to avoid damaging the lacquer finish. There are a few different brands that make a lubricant specifically for using steel wool. You can also apply paste wax after you are finished to give it a little bit more gloss.

Good luck with it!

iv heard soapy water works just aswell

ill have a look for some paste wax when im out next, cheers for the help

[Endohopper]

I'll be keeping a close watch on this thread , as I itend to strip / respray my frame tonight . Time to get that pure white shiny look again .