Gloss on Satin (or Satin on Gloss)

[Mike Goetzke]

My son is finishing a bar top and was told to put down a coat of clear and then a couple of satin. For some reason I thought it was the other way around.

Which way is best?

 

[deepcreek]

Every sheen other than gloss has flatteners added.  Multiple coats of a flattened sheen can look cloudy.  I use gloss for all coats except the last and then finish with satin.

 

[mkasdin]

I just use semigloss. I like the look with certain woods. Besides I have a gallon so I’m using it up for now.

 

[Packard]

Gloss then 1200 grit can get the same look.  I agree.  Too many coats with flattening agents can look cloudy. 

I tried to put satin clear over black and the black started to look gray.  Flatteners can really have an effect on dark colors.