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[JWDiaz]

Hi Eric,

I've been reading about your finishing methods and would like to try them out;
but I can't find Deft spraying lacquer anywhere, is it okay to use the brushing lacquer instead?

[Robert Yarger]

I'm not Eric but have to think that Deft is the way to go if you can find it.  Still, any brush on lacquer should work in LPHV sprayer, and I think that spraying gives better results that brushing. 

[Eric Fuller]

You can spray any lacquer, so Deft should be fine.  I used to use it, but switched to Buffcote as it gives a really nice hard and smooth surface.

I agree with Robert that spraying gives superior results.  I would definitely practice a bit on some scrap...it can be a little trickier than you think.  Google HVLP spray technique for some good tips first.

[JWDiaz]

Thanks Robert and Eric.

What is Buffcote? Is it a lacquer?

[Eric Fuller]

Yup.

http://www.mohawk-finishing.com/catalog_browse.asp?ictNbr=697

[Carl Morris]

What lacquer finish do you guys like (gloss, satin, flat) and why?

    -- Carl

[Robert Yarger]

I always always use a flat (matte) finish.  It gives a box more of an antique look, but more importantly it disguises (rather than accentuates) any dents, scratches,or other blemishes that may be in a wood.  A high sheen finish makes them stand out to where you can see them from a cross the room. 

I suppose, however, that if you wax a puzzle over the lacquer (as most of us do to improve the textural feel), then it really does not matter.  The final gloss will then be determined by the type of wax more than the lacquer.

[Eric Fuller]

I like satin...personal preference I suppose, but the flat is too flat, and gloss is too....glossy.  I only wax puzzle boxes usually...waxing the interlocking puzzles would add too much cost and I would have to raise prices.