Lacquer finishes are preferred by professional wood finishers who are working production. Lacquers are fast drying and easy to sand and polish. They come in clear or colors and a variety of sheens. Lacquers are generally divided into categories based on their resin type. Nitrocellulose - Made from cotton and dissolved in solvent with some alkyd resin to modify its working properties. These will amber over time. Pre Cat - Harder than nitrocellulose, this one has a catalyst added at the factory Post Cat or Conversion Varnish is the most durable of the lacquers. It must have some catalyst added prior to use. CAB - Cellulose Acrylic Butyrate are the clearest and work well in use as a protective layer over light colors.
