Recipe for Dipping Lacquer.

[David Holk]

I have seen how to thin lacquer for dipping brass parts, but failed to write it down. I have tried spray cans and it seems I always wind up with "orange peel".

Thanks,

David

[David Holk]

I have seen how to thin lacquer for dipping brass parts, but failed to write it down. I have tried spray cans and it seems I always wind up with "orange peel".

Thanks,

David

[John Hubby]

David, for dipping lacquer a good recipe is to dilute a good brushing lacquer 50/50 with lacquer thinner. Some may recommend even more dilution but my experience is that the final finish will be too thin. Also, before dipping the parts, pre-warm the part with a hair dryer or in an oven. That will ensure removal of all moisture from the surface of the part and gives a more uniform final finish.

Regarding the use of sprays, they will work OK if you use an automotive clear coat lacquer and not the common clear lacquers. In using these, the parts also need to be pre-heated which will virtually eliminate any orange peel effect.

Now . . having said all that, I changed quite some time ago to using a hard paste wax (bowling alley lane wax or automotive wax with a high carnauba content) instead of lacquer. Much easier, no flammability or toxic problems. Clean and polish the parts using a paste polish, be sure to remove all traces of polish residue by wiping with acetone and then a soft cotton rag (old tee shirt). Apply a thin, even coat of wax, let it dry, buff and then apply a second coat. Let that dry and buff again. This will provide a durable surface which will not show any fingerprints, and will last as well as most lacquer jobs. It also is easier to remove and repolish when needed.

John Hubby
Secretary Chapter #168

[John Hubby]

Chauncey, you are correct. I use a very small amount on a soft rag in an open ventilated area, so very little chance of ignition. If it's not possible to use acetone, next best is hot soapy water, rinse wtth boiling water, dry and buff with soft cotton cloth then dry in an oven or with a hair dryer before applying the wax.

John Hubby