To brush lacquer tips, you hold your brush at 90° to the surface and lightly graze (or tip) the surface with the ends of the bristles immediately after applying a coat. This technique helps to smooth out the lacquer and eliminate brush marks, ensuring a level and professional finish.
Understanding the Lacquer Tipping Process
"Tipping" in lacquer application refers to the final, light pass with the brush designed to achieve a perfectly smooth and even surface. It's not a primary application stroke but a refining one, critical for achieving a glass-like finish without visible brush lines.
Steps for Achieving a Smooth Lacquer Finish
The tipping process is typically the last step in a sequence for applying each coat of lacquer. For optimal results, follow these steps:
1. Applying the Base Coat
Begin by applying a nice, even coat of lacquer.
- Work with the grain: Always brush in the direction of the wood grain to ensure the lacquer settles properly and blends seamlessly.
- Even distribution: Aim for a consistent thickness across the entire surface to avoid uneven drying or blotches.
2. Managing Brush Drag
As you apply the lacquer, your brush might start to drag. This indicates that the lacquer on the bristles is becoming less fluid.
- Flip the brush: When the brush begins to drag, flip it over. This transfers the lacquer clinging to the other side of the bristles, allowing you to continue applying with a more saturated brush, maintaining a smooth flow.
3. The Tipping Action (Brushing Lacquer Tips)
Immediately after laying down the even coat and potentially flipping the brush, perform the tipping action. This is the crucial step for a flawless finish.
- Brush angle: Hold your brush at a 90° angle (perpendicular) to the surface.
- Light touch: Lightly graze (or tip) the surface with only the very ends of the bristles. The goal is not to apply more lacquer but to gently disturb and level the wet lacquer, causing it to flow together and eliminate any brush strokes or imperfections left from the application passes. This should be done quickly and decisively.
Key Considerations for Lacquer Application
For a detailed breakdown of the complete process, including the essential tipping step, refer to the following table:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Apply Even Coat | Work with the grain, brush on a nice, even layer of lacquer. | To lay down the primary layer of lacquer across the surface. |
| 2. Handle Brush Drag | When the brush starts to drag, flip it over to utilize the lacquer clinging to the other side. | To maintain a consistent flow of lacquer and prevent an uneven finish. |
| 3. Brush Lacquer Tips | Hold your brush at 90° to the surface and lightly graze (or tip) the surface with the ends of the bristles. | To smooth out any brush marks, release air bubbles, and achieve a perfectly level, professional finish. |
By following these steps, especially the precise tipping technique, you can achieve a superior, smooth, and professional lacquer finish on your projects.
