Lacquer Calculator — Spray Finish Quantities

Spray lacquer typically covers 8-12 m² per litre (e.g. Morrells pre-cat ~8-10 m²/L). Coverage depends on spray technique, film thickness, and how much overspray occurs. HVLP guns achieve roughly 65% transfer efficiency; conventional air-spray guns only about 25-40% (the EPA assumes 25%), so they waste far more lacquer to overspray.

Most lacquers need 5-15% thinner for HVLP spraying. Check the manufacturer recommendations. Over-thinning causes runs; under-thinning causes orange peel texture.

Apply 3-4 coats for furniture. Sand lightly with 320-400 grit between coats. The final coat can be rubbed out with fine abrasives for a mirror finish.