Thread: Tips on applying japanese laquer

Isn't the practice of lacquering the sides of Japanese stones a carry over from when they were stored outside? I know the intent is to prevent moisture from de-laminating the stone, but thought it had more value when the stone is exposed to the weather vs when it is wet from honing.

Originally Posted by Bill S

Isn't the practice of lacquering the sides of Japanese stones a carry over from when they were stored outside? I know the intent is to prevent moisture from de-laminating the stone, but thought it had more value when the stone is exposed to the weather vs when it is wet from honing.

It is, but there's nothing wrong with doing it. Some stones are more porous on the sides, or have damage, and lacquering can prevent deterioration from that. And I have stones that are stamped on the sides and I lacquered them to prevent the stamps getting worn off.

It certainly isn't necessary, though.

I agree, that looks just like the bottle I got from 330mate. I lacquered several of my stones with it, and their coating is still as good as when I coated them, I've been very pleased with it's durability...

When I used it, I made sure the stones were damp, then used a paper towel as a brush to apply a thin coat to all sides of the stone except the top, I did not dilute it....

then I let the stones sit inside on the kitchen table face down for 2 days to make sure they were completely dry since the lacquer is water soluble until it's completely dry.....

After the coating is cured, I had to re-Lap the surface and re-Bevel the edges of the face to get rid of excess lacquer.

Does anyone know why Polyurethane can't be used, or something of that nature. I have used it successfully on my Escher's to keep the label with no ill effects. Can it be applied to J Nat's?, if not, why? If my logic is correct, the point is to seal out moisture, heck, you may be able to use Thompson's water seal?

I see no reason why not, I would use something that does not soak in

I used poly on a synthetic Aoto and it peeled off. Naturals are not soaked though so it might work, but generally any lacquer will do.

Originally Posted by mainaman

I used poly on a synthetic Aoto and it peeled off. Naturals are not soaked though so it might work, but generally any lacquer will do.

come to think of it; whatever SO Yama used to seal my stone also started flaking off.

Was your stone clean when you sealed it.

I hope you dont start an unnecessary fad of sealing synthetics?????

Originally Posted by kevint

I see no reason why not, I would use something that does not soak in

I'd have to agree with kevint......the polyurethane would probably be just fine, although I would personally stay away from anything thin like the thompsons water seal.

If I was looking for something at a home improvement store to seal a stone with, I would personally go with "Spar Varnish" because it's made to allow wood to withstand a saltwater environment.....

Sounds Good, I've done four Escher's with Poly, and they're doin great..and it's been some time...Now, as far as J-Nat's, I am not an authority on those. I digress to the Authorities.

Originally Posted by JimR

It is, but there's nothing wrong with doing it. Some stones are more porous on the sides, or have damage, and lacquering can prevent deterioration from that. And I have stones that are stamped on the sides and I lacquered them to prevent the stamps getting worn off.

It certainly isn't necessary, though.

Seems the more porous stones are more prone to crack than others.
IIRC So says that Aoto tends to split along the grain, so some kind of lacquering would be prudent in this case.