White paint + lacquer, good idea?

[Stormrider]

Initially I planned a black CP, but now I think I could make it more modern and original with a complete white body and black buttons. It will be made of MDF, painted and then with lacquer so as to protect the paint from scratches, decoloration, etc. What I'm not sure about is that maybe white is a colour that tends to show stain easily. But would the lacquer prevent this from happening. I mean, white paint and nothing more would result in a dirty panel in a few months of use, but wouldn't lacquer make it look as good as if it were black or any other colour?

Another question I have: if I painted with satin or mat paint, if I apply lacquer, the result will be shiny? Or is there any kind of satin or mat lacquer for that kind of finish?

Thanx!!

[sstorkel]

Doesn't lacquer tend to yellow over time?

Lacquer should help prevent staining, assuming you wipe the panel clean from time to time. Be aware that lacquer may scratch; it's not nearly as durable as polyurethane. In my experience using Deft brushing lacquer, it will take 3-4 weeks before the lacquer is fully cured. Very easy to scratch it during this time period. I believe that there are also substances that will stain lacquer. Can't remember what they are. Maybe alcohol? Lacquer goes on glossy. Once it's cured you can "rub out" the finish to any sheen you want.

Be aware that lacquer is one of the most toxic finishes available. It is extremely flammable and the solvents are very nasty. You'll need a good quality respirator if you want to work with it and not get headaches.

I have to wonder why you've picked lacquer rather than a water-based polyurethane? Additionally, if I were planning a black or white control panel I would think strongly about using melamine! There's no finishing involved and the melamine plastic is impervious to just about anything.

[Stormrider]

I don't know exactly the names and the tecnical stuff, but I'll take it into consideration when I take the box to be painted. Thanx.

I discared the use of melamine because I want all borders of my panel rounded, and melamine cannot be installed that way.

[sstorkel]

So you're not going to paint it yourself? If you're going to have a professional do it, you may have other options available. If I were you, I'd ask your painter what he recommends. Chances are, he'll have access to a catalyzed lacquer that's better than anything you could do yourself. They use that stuff on kitchen cabinets and it seems to wear very well...

[ddw]

If your going to hire a finisher . I would use white pigmented lacquer very durable. but you need someone with experience to finish  it most painters do not know how to finish cabinets. I used a yellow lacquer on my cabinet it is far better looking than painting it with a roller. more like a piece of furniture.


          ddw