Re finish question

[56nortondomy]

I’m doing my first re finish on a guitar, the guitar has been French polished, the owner wants lacquer on it. My question is, is it ok to spray over the shellac? I’ve cleaned it up and rubbed it with steel wool to take the shine off. Thanks Wayne

[kiwigeo]

As far as I know lacquer over shellac should work. Allen is the expert on finishes so I'll let him have the final word

[56nortondomy]

Thanks Martin, that's what I'm thinking too but I want to make sure.
Wayne

[Mark McLean]

That is a stunning looking back. Is it brazilian?
Lots of expert sources say that pretty much any finish can go over shellac. I have put both oil finish and nitro over shellac without any problems. I think you will be fine with that plan.

[56nortondomy]

Ok thanks Mark. It's cocobolo and was my very first order back in 2012, it's in for a re fret which I've done and the re finish, yes it's a great looking set of timber too bad we can't get it anymore.
Wayne

[Allen]

I've never done lacquer over a full french polish. No problem with a spit coat. My concern would be oil contamination from the FP process, or excessive build up. If you are sure niether is a problem then give it a go. You'll know right away if there is oil contamination with the lacquer blowing apart with fish eyes.

[56nortondomy]

Thanks Allen. I'll try it, if I get fish eye I'll just sand it back, it'll just cost some time.
Wayne