What is the difference between a satin and a high gloss lacquer finish?
We use a nitrocellulose lacquer finish on all our guitars and for the gloss finish on the dulcimers; we use a CAB acrylic lacquer for the satin finished instruments. There is no discernible difference in tonal response between a satin or gloss finish. The satin finish is the standard finish on all our dulcimers; high gloss lacquer finish is standard on the guitars and available as an option on the dulcimers for an extra charge. The satin lacquer tends, to some extent, to hide the wood grain while the gloss lacquer is absolutely transparent and shows every detail compare the two finishes to frosted versus clear glass. Some people consider the satin finish easier to maintain as it does not show fingerprints or minor scratches as much as does the gloss finish, but nothing enhances the color and grain of the wood quite like a hand rubbed gloss lacquer finish.
Related Questions
- When purchasing paint Ive been asked if I want flat, high gloss, satin or even an eggshell finish. What do these terms mean, and does it really make any difference what kind of finish I have?
- Is there a real difference between flat, high gloss, satin, and eggshell finishes?
- What is the difference between a satin and a high gloss lacquer finish?
