Lacquer finish problems

[bholmsten]

This is my first time to try a lacquer finish.  I have a HVLP paint sprayer but was worried about difficulty painting the different edges of this project without getting runs etc.  I primed with two coats and thought I could try Lacquer based spray paint in a can since it is a small project.  I have put two coats on sanding between coats and can not get a consistent coverage some areas are nice and shinny while others are dull.  It is a white paint so it is hard to see my coverage as I paint it.  I was wondering if at this point I should sand it to a uniform cover and spray a clear coat of lacquer or Polyurethane.  I was going for a glossy lacquer look.  I went to Sherwin Williams and they rec going with a semi gloss oil paint and said it would be glossier than the Lacquer I currently have.  They said I would have to sand it and prime it and then paint it.  That seems like a lot of work.  Can I fix this or do I need to start over?  Any advice on painting a lacquer finish.  Should I have just used a non lacquer paint then applied a lacquer finish.  Should I use a glossy paint.  If I paint over this will the paint not stick without priming?
Thanks for your help
Brad

 

[tjbnwi]

The entire problem is the spray cans.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer is one of the hardest products to GET a run in. Easiest to sand a run out. If you can spray poly, this should be easy.

It is very flammable so be carful. Check your respirator, get the proper cartridge.

Tom

 

[bholmsten]

Thanks for your quick reply.  do you think with the two coats of Paint I could sand then spray or do you think I need to prime and repaint the spray on lacquer or poly etc?
Thanks

 

[tjbnwi]

Sand with 1200, apply 2 more coats, sand with 400 (I know that seems backwards, I'm hoping the 1200 will not sand through what's on there. Use Wet-R-Dry local auto finish seller or O'Reily's may have it. ). Apply 2 coats, sand with 6-800. Apply final coat. Buff/polish to desired sheen.

Tom

 

[mastercabman]

What brand of lacquer aerosol can did you use?

 

[rmwarren]

For whatever it is worth, I have had great results using Deft spray lacquer, available for Lowes.

RMW