Is this safe to use over decals?

dotsdad

Well-known member
I put a new neck on my Strat. The decals are shinier than the satin poly finish, so I'd like to shoot a little clearcoat over it to even out the sheen.

Would it be safe to use a basic spray lacquer such as this over the poly and the (dried) decals:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Valspar-Cl...Spray-Paint-Actual-Net-Contents-12-oz/3728921

What about Spray enamel, such as this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ENZ8C...t=&hvlocphy=9008421&hvtargid=pla-272835439613

I really want to use Testors Dullcote, which I used in my youth to blend decals on model kits, but I can;t find it anywhere local and I am to cheap and impatient to pay for and wait for it to be shipped to me.

P.S. If the items above won't work, please recommend something I can get at my local Lowe's or Walmart store.
 
Last edited:
Re: Is this safe to use over decals?

I would be very leery of the lacquer. Lacquer can totally mess up other finishes. The spray enamel might be worth a shot.
Personally, I would try a satin polyurethane. Lowe's has it. A very light coat is probably all you need.
 
Re: Is this safe to use over decals?

Thanks Dave. i went with the satin enamel.

I put on a few very light mist coats to make sure the decals wouldn't curl. Then I gradually put on heavier and heavier coats. Then I sanded it out with 250, then 600, then 1000 grit sandpaper.

It turned out much better than I expected! Check it out:

image.jpg
 

Attachments

  • image.jpg
    image.jpg
    67.6 KB · Views: 0
  • image.jpg
    image.jpg
    48.5 KB · Views: 0
Last edited:
Re: Is this safe to use over decals?

you guys , Nitros like mohawk finishers choice can be safe if you build from Tack/Dust very dry + build up . But I usually research the original finish + match the same finish as oem . Just make sure they read from their Data to You, not suggested after market quick answers like Stew-mac (which Jackson, fender , Ibanez all do)
 
Back
Top