Referred to as ‘true’ lacquer, Asian lacquer is made from the sap of a Chinese lacquer tree (Toxicodendron Vernicifluum). It is a rarefied art and mainly applied to objects. An Urishi fountain pen, for instance, may take weeks to lacquer.

European lacquer or Japanning uses different materials to obtain a durable and shiny finish. Sometimes European lacquer tries to imitate the reds and blacks of ‘true lacquer’, but lacquers can be pigmented any colour or be clear.

For our wall lacquers we use a durable, water-miscible plant or oil-based varnish that is low in VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds).

A lacquer can also be applied over a subtle paint finish such as a drag or scumbled wall.

The layers of varnish are built up gradually; each layer is rubbed and polished for depth. Different sheens can be achieved from a mirror-like finish to nearly matte. We also use ‘lac’ or Shellac-based lacquers for treatments such as French polishing.