Official Luthiers Forum!

This may be an incredibly simplistic question so I apologize if so. I most often use Mohawk Classic Instrument Lacquer. I've heard it mentioned before that a flattening agent can be added to a finish to change the sheen. I've seen a few lacquer flattening agents upon a good search. Anyone here have any experience changing a gloss nitro finish to a nice satin sheen with the addition of a flattening agent? Any particular products that have worked well for you?

I've used the McFaddens flattening paste with good results in McFadden nitro and in Seagraves nitro. It's a trial and error type process to dial in the right amount of paste to get the sheen you want. I just added paste to a quart of gloss nitro and test sprayed until I hit the sheen and go from there. Just stir it well to fully mix it.

I know that in regards to the lacquers I use each type has it's own flattening paste. As with most things finish related today what was once universal products are no longer universal.

_________________
Brian

You never know what you are capable of until you actually try.

https://www.howardguitarsdelaware.com/

Mohawk makes a flattening agent. If using Mohawk nitro it would be wise to use their flattening agent.

I've also used Mohawk flattening agent and Cardinal Nitro with good results.

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"I've been had again"
Tim Benware
Creedmoor, NC

Good to know that combo works well for you.

I spoke with a Mohawk tech who informed me that the Behlens flatterning agent is the exact same as the Mohawk product. The Behlens is notably cheaper from the Klingspor website compared to the Mohawk product directly from Mohawk. Although the directions for use on the Klingspor website are very inaccurate.