What’s the proper sanding + lacquer process for dyed maple veneer to get a deep smooth gloss finish?
I make fingerboards (mini finger skateboards) and I’ve been experimenting with dyed maple veneer and gloss lacquer finishes, but I’m struggling to consistently achieve that super smooth “deep gloss” finish without texture/orange peel under direct light. Sometimes I get the smoothest glassy glossy finish and other times it’s just shit, always same lacquer same environment same amount of coats and strategy. My current strategy and environment consists of:
- sanded with 80 grit, 120 grit, 400 grit, 600 grit
- Dust and debris is removed with lint free microfiber cloths, compressed air, and sometimes a dab wipe of isopropyl alcohol
- 3-4 layers of watco spray gloss lacquer (can says no sanding required between layers), typically 15mins between coats
- first layer is typically a light layer, increasing thickness as layers go up
- sprayed in my garage
- cured inside
I attached:
- first photo, example of one of inconsistent results
- second and third photos, examples of the finish quality I’m trying to achieve
A few things I’m trying to figure out:
- What grit should maple veneer actually be sanded to before lacquer?
- Is sanding sealer or grain filler recommended on dyed maple veneer?
- Should lacquer coats be sanded/leveled between coats?
- Is wipe-on polyurethane actually better for smoothness than spray lacquer?
- What’s the proper curing + polishing process for that ultra smooth finish?
I’m trying to avoid:
- uneven texture
- orange peel
- raised grain
- sanding through dye
Would appreciate hearing the process experienced woodworkers or finishers use for high-gloss veneer work.