CHJ
Established Member
LW, the melamine is not the easiest to use on large areas, very easy to get build up streaks or uneven runs if hand applied.
The spray versions are easier to get an even finish over larger areas once you have got the hang of using spray-can lacquers in general and avoid frosted surface or runs.
Hand applied neat on small items is easy, don't apply too much at a time and wait until evaporated before initial burnishing, best left for cream burnishing after it has started to harden, less chance of breaking through any skin.
I thin hand applied for larger areas, I find it is best applied and leave alone until fully evaporated, if you try to spread, handle it, or burnish as you would sealer then build up streaks are all to readily formed.
If this happens then it can be blended back in with thinners but it is very easy to dig yourself deeper into problems, often best left until dry and re-sand or burnish cream out.
Others may have, guess Will Have might be more likely, differing methods but basically it is down to you to find an application method, brush, cloth, neat, thin etc. that suits you. Once confident with handling, it it makes a hard wearing moisture resistant finish that holds up well for fruit dishes etc. where soft fruit use may require the occasional wipe with a wet cloth.
The spray versions are easier to get an even finish over larger areas once you have got the hang of using spray-can lacquers in general and avoid frosted surface or runs.
Hand applied neat on small items is easy, don't apply too much at a time and wait until evaporated before initial burnishing, best left for cream burnishing after it has started to harden, less chance of breaking through any skin.
I thin hand applied for larger areas, I find it is best applied and leave alone until fully evaporated, if you try to spread, handle it, or burnish as you would sealer then build up streaks are all to readily formed.
If this happens then it can be blended back in with thinners but it is very easy to dig yourself deeper into problems, often best left until dry and re-sand or burnish cream out.
Others may have, guess Will Have might be more likely, differing methods but basically it is down to you to find an application method, brush, cloth, neat, thin etc. that suits you. Once confident with handling, it it makes a hard wearing moisture resistant finish that holds up well for fruit dishes etc. where soft fruit use may require the occasional wipe with a wet cloth.
The hand-applied option might be better for me. I don't know what I want; that's the trouble. More of a burnish than a shine, if you know what I mean. I'm going to have to invest in something, but not sure what at this stage.
