Nitrocellulose Guitar Finish

Nitrocellulose Guitar Finish

Nitrocellulose, or nitro, has been in use for finishing guitars for a very long time. It is applied in thin layers that melt together and build a durable protective coat. The solvents in nitro need time to cure, so care is needed not to apply layers that are too thick, which can cause the lacquer to turn white. Nitro is therefore applied by spraying, such as with spraycans or with a spraygun or airbrush. When you are using a spraygun, you will also need some Nitro thinner to mix with your nitro. Nitro fumes are harmful, so a good quality fine-dust mask is required as well as protective clothing and a well-ventilated workspace.

Nitro is transparent and available in a matte or gloss, of which the latter can be polished to a high gloss. The more gloss you want, the more you need to make sure that your surface is spotless and smooth. Get rid of all scratches and use a grainfiller or the Z-Poxy finishing resin with open pore wood. Use Cellulose sanding sealer of the wood is sensitive for moisture.

We recommend to apply 9-12 layers in total, starting with a base coat or a primer. A base caot consist of 3 very thin, diagonally crossed layers. Count apr. 1 hour for curing between the layers with light sanding between the layers and apply a maximum of 3 layers per day. After your last layer, let the lacquer cure for 2 weeks before fine-sanding and polishing.

Our Nitro lacquers:

* Finishing products and product combinations should always be tested before use
** Follow the complete safety instructions on the packaging