GGs,

I'm another who's taken a long leave from the topside of the porch, and
I hate to come back with a question (actually, 2) rather than a
contribution, but here I am.

I'm trying to identify the finish on our cabinetry and some other
woodwork in prep for making repairs.  Alcohol seems to soften the finish
a bit, making it slightly tacky but not dissolving it.  Scrubbing with
an acetone-dampened rag takes it off, and drops of acetone on the
surface bubbles the finish slightly before the acetone evaporates.
Looking back here:

http://swingleydev.com/archive/get.php?message_id=81071&submit_thread=1#message

which gives some info from one of Bob Flexner's book, I think I have
lacquer, but do these tests rule out polyurethane?  I've seen mixed info
on the web regarding the effects of acetone on poly, but I think the
softening in alcohol wouldn't happen with poly.

If lacquer, my understanding is that new lacquer over old lacquer is OK.
Has anyone had any experience using brushing lacquer (e.g. Deft Clear
Wood Finish) over an existing lacquer finish?  I've read that leveling
can be a problem compared to spraying, but if you've encountered any
other gotcha's, I'd appreciate hearing about them.

Thanks in advance.  We're in the midst of preparing for a likely
relocation, but once that's over, I hope I'll be able to come join the fun
a bit more often.

Regards,

Norm
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