Lena Rivera
Nitrocellulose is a classic choice for refinishing guitars, known for its aesthetic appeal and vintage charm. It is a popular finish for high-end instruments, such as Gibson, Martin, and Fender guitars, due to its superior appearance compared to polyester and polyurethane finishes. Refinishing a guitar with nitrocellulose lacquer involves stripping the original finish, sanding the wood, painting with nitrocellulose, and finally, polishing the new finish. This process requires patience and time, as well as adherence to safety precautions due to the flammable nature of nitrocellulose. With the right techniques and attention to detail, one can achieve a smooth, visually striking, and durable finish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Coats | 6-10 coats, including background, colour, and finish |
| Minimum Coats | 3-4 coats |
| Sanding | Sand between coats with P800 sandpaper; sand with P1200-P2000 water-based sandpaper to remove imperfections |
| Drying Time | 3-4 weeks; at least 20 minutes between coats |
| Safety | Well-ventilated area; wear a respirator mask |
| Surface Preparation | Use a "witness" surface to test thickness; ensure surface is clean and free of dust |
| Application Method | Spray gun; warm or hot lacquer to avoid splattering |
| Thickness | 150-180 microns for a fine finish |
| Polishing | Use a polishing compound and sponge; a second step with a black sponge for a superior shine |
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What You'll Learn
Sanding the guitar body
Start by inspecting the guitar body and neck, ensuring that any traces of the original finish or sealer are removed. Check for any blemishes in the wood and make sure the surface is ready for sanding. It is crucial to work diligently to prepare the guitar's wood adequately.
Begin the sanding process with 220-grit sandpaper. Sand the entire guitar body, including the neck and any crevices or hard-to-reach areas. Use a sanding block or a flexible sanding pad to ensure you can reach all contours of the guitar. After sanding, wipe the guitar body with a damp cloth to remove any dust and raise the wood grain.
Once the guitar body is dry, proceed with a second round of sanding. This time, use 320-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface further. Pay close attention to any sharp edges, such as around pickup cavities, and round them off to avoid injuries when playing the guitar. If there are still visible imperfections, you can repeat the process with finer grit sandpaper, such as 400-grit, until you achieve a satisfactory smoothness. Remember to wipe the guitar body with a damp cloth and let it dry between sanding sessions.
After completing the sanding process, ensure that the guitar body is free of any dust or residue. You can use a tack cloth to ensure a clean surface before proceeding to the next steps of refinishing. It is important to note that you should always wear a respirator and work in a well-ventilated area when sanding to avoid inhaling dust particles.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that nitrocellulose lacquer has unique properties. Unlike other paint finishes, nitrocellulose does not always require sanding between coats. Due to its solvent-based nature, each fresh coat "melts" into the previous one, creating a smooth overlay. However, light sanding between coats can be done for better adhesion and to correct any imperfections.
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Applying lacquer coats
Before applying the lacquer coats, it is crucial to prepare the guitar surface thoroughly. This involves stripping any existing finish and sanding the wood to create a smooth base. Use progressively finer sandpaper grits, starting with P400 or P320 grit sandpaper and working your way up to P1200, P1500, and even P2000 grit. Raise the grain with a damp cloth between sanding sessions, and ensure that the surface is free of dust and imperfections.
When applying the lacquer, always start with light and thin coats. Warm or hot lacquer is preferred as it sprays more evenly, but be cautious as some sources advise against pre-heating to avoid inconsistent drying and trapping moisture. Spray at room temperature, maintaining a relative humidity below 60% to avoid blushing or cloudiness. Maintain a distance of approximately 12 inches from the guitar surface during spraying.
Apply up to three coats per day, with at least 20 minutes to one hour between each coat. This allows the lacquer to become touch-dry and reduces the risk of runs or drips. A minimum of three coats is recommended, with some sources suggesting six to ten coats for a finer finish.
After applying the final coat, allow the lacquer to dry and harden for at least two to four weeks. This extended waiting period ensures that the finish is sufficiently cured, setting the stage for the final sanding and polishing steps.
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Drying and hardening
Drying Time:
Nitrocellulose lacquer requires a significant amount of drying time to ensure a proper finish. It is recommended to allow the lacquer to dry for at least 3 to 4 weeks after applying the final coat. During this period, the lacquer should be kept in a well-ventilated and dry environment. The drying time ensures that the finish hardens sufficiently before proceeding to the next steps.
Sanding and Inspection:
Once the initial drying period is complete, it's time to start the sanding process. Begin with finer grit sandpaper, such as P1200 or P1500, and gradually move to finer grits like P2000. Sand the finish to remove any imperfections, dust, or irregularities. It is important to sand gently and avoid applying too much pressure to achieve a smooth and even surface. After sanding, inspect the surface thoroughly for any remaining imperfections or dust particles.
Polishing:
After sanding and inspecting the finish, it's time to polish the guitar. Apply polish to a sponge or polishing cloth and work it into the finish gently without applying excessive pressure. Start with a coarse or medium polishing compound and gradually move to finer compounds to achieve the desired shine. This process will enhance the gloss and protection of the finish.
Hardening:
Nitrocellulose lacquer continues to harden gradually over time, even after the initial drying period. It can take years for the lacquer to fully harden and reach its maximum hardness. However, it dries relatively quickly to the touch, allowing for subsequent coats to be applied and further processing.
Additional Coats:
Depending on the desired finish and the number of initial coats applied, you may need to apply additional coats of lacquer. It is recommended to apply a minimum of 3 coats, with some sources suggesting 6 to 10 coats for a high-quality finish. Allow sufficient drying time between coats, typically 20 minutes to 1 hour, and apply no more than 2 to 3 coats per day.
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Polishing the finish
Before polishing, it is essential to sand the finish to create an even and smooth surface. Sanding can be done by hand or using a machine, and it is recommended to start with a lower grit sandpaper and gradually move to a higher grit. Begin with P1200 or P1500 sandpaper and work your way up to P2000. The surface should be free of any imperfections, such as dust, dents, or scratches. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area during the sanding process to avoid inhaling dust particles.
After sanding, the polishing process can begin. It is recommended to use a polishing compound and a polishing sponge or cloth. Apply the polishing compound to the sponge or cloth and work it into the finish with gentle, even strokes. Avoid pressing too hard or overheating the finish. Start with a coarse or medium compound and gradually move to a fine or ultra-fine compound to achieve the desired shine.
For an even higher degree of shine and protection, a two-step polishing process can be employed. After the initial polishing with a white sponge, follow up with a black sponge and a high-gloss polish. This additional step will enhance the shine and provide superior protection for the guitar's finish.
By following these steps and allowing adequate time for the finish to harden, you will achieve a polished and refined look for your guitar. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary precautions to avoid inhaling any dust or chemicals during the polishing process.
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Safety precautions
Refinishing a guitar with nitrocellulose lacquer paint can be a rewarding project, but it's important to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Here are some detailed safety guidelines to follow:
Work Area Ventilation and Respiratory Protection:
Nitrocellulose lacquer is flammable and emits dangerous fumes when applied. Ensure your work area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of flammable vapors and to minimize inhalation risks. Open doors and windows, and consider setting up fans to promote airflow. Always wear a respirator mask to protect your lungs and avoid inhaling the toxic fumes.
Eye and Skin Protection:
Nitrocellulose lacquer can irritate the eyes and skin. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from splatters and fumes. Additionally, wear long sleeves, gloves, and a hat to protect your skin from direct contact with the lacquer.
Temperature Control and Ignition Sources:
Maintain a stable room temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Avoid extreme temperatures as they can affect the lacquer's performance and safety. Never use direct heat sources like hairdryers or warm water to heat the lacquer can, as this may lead to overheating or potential explosions. Keep ignition sources, such as open flames or sparks, away from the work area to prevent accidental fires or explosions.
Spray Testing and Surface Preparation:
Always test the spray pattern on a scrap piece of material before applying it to your guitar. This ensures you understand the spray behavior and can adjust your technique accordingly. Prepare the guitar surface properly by sanding out scratches and imperfections. Filling them with lacquer can be time-consuming and costly. Use a "witness" surface, such as a piece of paper glued to a rigid support, to measure the thickness of the lacquer layers and ensure a consistent application.
Drying and Curing:
After spraying, allow the guitar to dry and cure in a sheltered, dry, and warm place, protected from direct sunlight. Hang the guitar using a suitable holder or support to facilitate even drying. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying and curing time, typically ranging from one to four weeks, depending on the product.
Personal Safety and Awareness:
Nitrocellulose lacquer can have physiological effects, even when proper protective equipment is used. Stay vigilant for any signs of impairment or unusual behavior. If you experience any adverse effects, such as dizziness, headaches, or irritation, stop working immediately and seek fresh air. Consult a medical professional if symptoms persist or become severe.
By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure a safe and controlled environment for refinishing your guitar with nitrocellulose lacquer paint. Always read and follow the specific instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer on the product label.
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Frequently asked questions
Spray cans are the best way to apply a nitrocellulose finish to a guitar. Nitrocellulose is flammable and dangerous to inhale, so make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator mask.
A minimum of three coats of lacquer are needed. However, some sources suggest six to ten coats are necessary for a high-quality finish.
Sandpaper grit varies depending on the stage of the refinishing process. Start with P400/320 grit sandpaper to sand the wood until smooth, then use P800/400 grit sandpaper to sand out any imperfections. Finally, use P1500/800 grit sandpaper to wet sand the finish.
Nitrocellulose lacquer becomes touch-dry within 20 minutes, but it is recommended to leave the finish to dry for at least two weeks to a month before sanding and polishing.
