Painting wooden kitchen units

[marlb]

Hi all,

I have built my own kitchen units and now want to finish them with an oil based paint. I have done this all before and the results were ok. However, I have recently looked in some bespoke kitchen showrooms at the finish on their kitchens and would love to be able to get the finish as good as the pro's. The showrooms that I have visited all stated that the paint finish on their units were all achieved by hand. So I should be able to get it as good. The problem is how? The main difference is the sheen. they told me that the final coat was a lacquer. I have looked high and low and cannot find anything. I would appreciate it if any one could answer the following:

What is the process from the start?
When they say Lacquer do they mean varnish?

 

[Nige F]

By Hand.....usually means an "operative" is involved somewhere on the production line However I know a couple who used to make their own kitchen units and fit them to customers` homes --they used MDF and Sprayed the paint on In truth the finished article was close to "Wishbone of Devices " and other glossy mag kitchens....so the key is spraying ...but I`ll have to ring and ask them what particular paint etc. they used .......as for your lacquer I would guess that`s like a 2 pack automotive "refinishing"paint ..ie base coat colour ...and laquer finish.......you MAY still be able to buy the stuff from a specialist auto paint shop ....There`s one in Hastings , for instance BUT the Nanny State has tightened it`s COSHH rules of late I`ve used it and because it`s a bit naughty on the lungs, ahem, I`ve got an air fed mask Not a £150 De Villbiss one .......but a £20 Fireman`s B.A. from eBay