On 4/21/2012 11:12 AM, Norm Wood wrote:
> 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#mess
age
>
> 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
Sounds like lacquer alright. I haven't used the Deft product but it 
should do you fine. The main thing with lacquer (apart from excellent 
ventilation and no fires burning) is you have to be quick, then leave it 
alone to dry. Follow mfr's instructions, especially where it says 'light 
coats'. Practice somewhere it doesn't matter. Find out how much you need 
to thin it in order to keep it under control. Bonus with lacquer is if 
you mess up, it comes back off easily! FWIW
Don

-- 
I have tried too in my time, to be a philosopher; but I don't know how, 
cheerfulness was always breaking in. - Oliver Edwards
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