www.KitGuitarsForum.com

Ok for those of you trying to learn how to finish this is a simple tutorial on using LMI aqua Coat I do use a buffer and Mezerna buffing compounds.

I followed the instructions on the container but found I had better results using a nitrile glove and a paper towel. First I sanded to 220 then stained. I used on this body 2 minwax stains special walnut and dark walnut. After applying the stain I used shellac for sealant. 2 coats spread with a paper towel. Allowed to dry then applied the aqua coat. The first coat I applied per direction using a small plastic squeege. I was not entirely happy so use the glove and paper towel. I was happy to see a 45 min dry time so 2 coats didn't take that long. I did 220 light sanding after the 1st coat and 320 after the 2nd.
I use minwax gloss rattle can nitro lacquer. I sprayed every 45 min for 8 coats. so at this point I am allowing cure time. I was happy with the result. It is reasonable level.

he photos to this point are showing the pre finish condition. I will get more pics shorty . The aqua coat is working better than expected

here is the body after the first stage of finish
as you can see there is very slight surface orange peel . Should level sand very easy

That's really nice, John. I benched my Aquacoat for the past year, but now seeing this, I'm ready for another go. Does the minwax nitro use the same solvent as Behlen's rattle? I think I will give a try either way.

yes
the key is to have the proper prep
for me it was
Minwax stain ( it has a sealer in it )
then I sealed again with shellac ( 2 coats applied with a paper towel sanded with 320 between coats )
then applied the aqua coat and did this twice allowing 45 min between applications
then sprayed 8 coats every 45 min
will do this again on another guitar with emtech 9000 water base

tippie53 wrote:yes
the key is to have the proper prep
for me it was
Minwax stain ( it has a sealer in it )
then I sealed again with shellac ( 2 coats applied with a paper towel sanded with 320 between coats )
then applied the aqua coat and did this twice allowing 45 min between applications
then sprayed 8 coats every 45 min
will do this again on another guitar with emtech 9000 water base

I would have though you would have used the Aqua Coat first and then the Shellac.

nope the directions tell you to use a sealer before the filler and they recommended dewaxed shellac

tippie53 wrote:nope the directions tell you to use a sealer before the filler and they recommended dewaxed shellac

ok thanks John

been hanging for a few days will check to level sand this weekend the neck is in process will post pics soon