Behlen's Instrument Lacquer.

[guitar2005]

So on my current project, I plan on shooting Behlen's Instrument Lacquer for a clear finish over black limba.

Before I do that, I want to soak up the wood with a sealer of some sort to harden the surface a little and prepare for the final finish. I tried epoxy (Liquid Wood from Abatron - takes forever to cure) on some scrap but I don't like the results. CA glue isn't great either - I don't like the colour and it doesn't penetrate into the wood that much (I tried "Hot Stuff" Red).

I was going to use Behlen's Qualasole padding finish as a sealer & washcoat BUT on Behlen's Instrument Lacquer instructions, it says that I should only use their Vinyl Sealer.

1- Is the vinyl sealer really necessary?

2- If so, where can I get it in Canada?

3- Any other alternatives? Would DEFT sanding sealer be compatible with Behlen's Inst. Lacquer?

Thanks

Edited November 17, 2007 by guitar2005

[copperhead]

benjamin moore makes a good clear sanding sealer compatable with lacquer you can get it anyware they sell benjamin moore paints ,not too hard to find in canada

[Mattia]

Shellac works. Zinnser Bullseye Seal Coat (wax free!) will do if you don't want to mix your own.

[hotgoalie11565]

About the only way you'll really know if two finishes are compatible is by testing them together on a scrap piece of wood.

[guitar2005]

About the only way you'll really know if two finishes are compatible is by testing them together on a scrap piece of wood.

True, but how do I test long term durabilty and compatibility? That's why I'm asking for help here; to get tips based on other's experience.