Lacquer Craft

Painting lacquer on the surface of crafts not only protects them, it also enhances their attractiveness. Lacquer can be used on wood, paper or metal surfaces. Both professionals and hobbyists use lacquer for a variety of crafts. Clear lacquer may be painted over any colored designs on a project. As an alternative, colored lacquer may be used to provide color and a protective surface simultaneously. Using lacquer is a simple way to enhance an object’s usefulness and appearance.

Lacquered wood products can be found in many homes and business because lacquering is a common technique used to seal wood prior to sale. However, wood projects made at home can also be lacquered. Cut, sand and decorate any variety of finished, sanded woodcrafts. Apply stain or paint to the wood. After the wooden craft is finished, apply a coat of lacquer on top of the wood, and allow the coat of lacquer to dry. Continue adding additional coats of lacquer until the desired look and durability is achieved. The lacquer preserves the wood for several years, gives it a glossy appearance, and provides water resistance.

Use lacquer to turn ordinary boxes into decorative boxes used to store important items. To lacquer a box, embellish a plain wooden or cardboard box with decoupage art work in any design. Apply clear decoupage glue over the artwork. After the decoupage dries to a clear finish, paint a coat of lacquer to the top and sides of the box. This makes the decoupage appear embedded into the material of box, rather than set on top. The lacquer coating enables the outer surface of the box to be cleaned easily and is more durable.

Lacquer applied on top of paper mache projects makes them stronger and more attractive. Place paper mache strips, or paper mache clay, over a form. Allow the paper mache to dry. For the surface to appear smooth, apply a coat of clear lacquer. Spray or brush lacquer to the surface of the paper mache. Allow this coat to dry and add another coat. Repeat this process until a shell of dried lacquer covers the paper mache. Buff away any rough edges in the lacquer using sandpaper.

Painted, lacquered eggs are not only beautiful, but much more durable than painted eggs without a coat of lacquer. Make a small hole in the top and bottom of the egg. Blow the insides out of the egg. Paint the egg using acrylic or another type of paint. After the egg dries, brush a thin layer of lacquer on the surface. Alternatively, spray a coat of clear or colored lacquer to the surface of the egg. The lacquer makes the eggshells less likely to crack. The lacquer also imparts a shiny outer covering, which makes the colored eggs more attractive.