What Kind of Paint Can I Use Over Laquer Finish?

Interior Primer Sealer

• Vigorously sand the lacquer surface and apply a coating of an oil-based primer sealer. A primer sealer does not allow the lacquer or existing wood stain to bleed through the new coat of paint. A primer sealer also forms a tacky surface, allowing the new paint to strongly grip the surface, with little chance of peeling paint in the future. Apply latex, or oil-based paint, on top of a lacquered surface that has been primed with an oil-based primer sealer. Primer also causes glossy paints to appear brighter and shinier.

Shellac

• Shellac is a natural resin deposited into trees in Thailand by the lac bug. Shellac is collected, converted into liquid and sold in the form of a primer, sealer and wood varnish. Prime a lacquered wood surface with de-waxed shellac, or a household pigmented primer containing shellac. Dried shellac is glossy and hard. After the shellac dries, lightly sand the surface and apply a coat of enamel paint. Shellac is also beneficial for priming and sealing sappy knots in pine wood.

Acrylic Latex Primer

• Acrylic primer lacks the pungent odor found in oil-based primer and provides similar sealing advantages when applied on top of lacquer. Priming lacquered furniture with acrylic primer is not recommended, since water-based primer does not provide the long-term durability of an oil-based primer. Priming lacquered furniture, or flooring, with acrylic latex primer may cause the final coat of paint to easily chip, or rub off. Use acrylic primer on lacquered wood surfaces that are not exposed to foot traffic, or frequent abuse.

Enamel Paint

• Enamel paint, applied on top of a quality primer, provides a long-lasting paint finish for previously lacquered interior wood. For maximum durability, prime lacquered wood with oil-based primer, followed by two coats of oil-based enamel. Not only is oil enamel hard and durable, but the coating self-levels while drying, reducing the appearance of brush and roller marks. Sand lacquered wood thoroughly, remove dust, then apply a coat of oil primer, followed by oil-based or acrylic enamel.