Hi,
A lot of the pieces I build are on the modern/contemporary side and I like to use paint on some parts. I have built a few pieces lately and have been using mostly black low luster enamel with pretty good results.
However, It seems like I have been spending more time finishing than building. I have been getting small tiny dust particles in my finish and to take out just a couple I need to sand the whole thing down and keep spraying untill I get it right.
I have tried everything right down to wetting the floor.
I would like to rethink my ways of finishing. I want to use a flat finish oil based enamel and then shoot it with some low luster clear. I just am not sure what clear to use on oil based enamel.
I was thinking that after I shoot it with the clear I can hit it with some 0000 wool and get the finish I want. It seems like a good idea.
Any advise would be appreciated..
Thanks,
Bob
Replies
I use a coat of water based poly over oil enamel frequently. Keeps the paint from showing any scuff marks -- e.g. on a cupboard or bookcase shelf.
If you're going to spray, shoot black lacquer. Dries faster than the dust can stick. But, needs a booth and mask and appropriate safety equipment. There are waterbase "lacquers" but I've never tried them.
I not an expert finisher, but I've painted several items made for children's rooms, in pinks and whites. I experimented quite a bit to find an acceptable clear coat for that purpose. It is not so much an issue with your black paint, but most clear coats yellow over time, or add an amber tone that would ruin a light colored piece. I actually made up an experiment board and tried various products. The only reliable product that I found that will remain crystal clear is a water based poly product. I applied it over a water based paint - being less concerned with the hardness of the pain, given that I would surface coat it anyway. The big chains sell a special clear coat to faux painting that will work, but MinwaxPolycrylic is the same thing. Goes on milky, dries clear, and you can finish the finish to get the smoothness and luster you want. You might also consider polishing the painted surface itself to remove imperfections (nibs), rather than sanding it down and applying new coats, waiting for them to dry, and praying the problem does not repeat. Wet sand carefully with 1000 grit, then apply and buff out a coat of compound followed by a coat of wax. The paint itself is pretty hard, and will withstand a mild abrasive and wax. Just some thoughts.
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