Ceramic Repairs and Porcelain Repairs London – Liquid Lacquers | How do they work?

Here is a draft article explaining the use of liquid lacquers and resins for ceramic repairs:

Repairing Ceramics with Liquid Lacquers

Ceramic wares like pottery, porcelain, and china often develop small cracks, chips, and dents from frequent use and handling. While severe damage requires extensive repairs, minor surface flaws can be stabilized and disguised using liquid ceramic lacquers.

What Are Lacquer Repairs?

Liquid lacquers formulated for ceramics contain either acrylic or cellulose nitrate. When brushed over cracks and allowed to harden, they create a transparent seal that strengthens the repair and helps prevent further damage. Many are tinted to match common ceramic colors.

How Lacquers Work

The lacquer seeps into microscopic cracks by capillary action and hardens as the solvents evaporate. This bonds the edges to provide some surface reinforcement. Multiple layers may be applied to build up a smooth finish. Once cured, the lacquer is sanded and buffed gently.

Ideal for Minor Damage

Liquid lacquers excel at sealing hairline cracks, minor edge chips, small dents, and other superficial flaws. The transparent tinted coating disguises damage by blending with the surrounding color. Lacquers are easy to apply compared to structural repairs.

Limitations

Lacquer alone does not restore structural integrity on severe cracks or broken pieces. It is only a surface reinforcement. Lacquers may darken or add a slight glossy appearance compared to unrepaired areas. Results depend on application skill.

Overall, liquid ceramic lacquers offer an quick, inexpensive way to repair minor damage and improve the durability and appearance of well-loved ceramic items. With care, they can make flaws almost.

This is how this method works for repairing ceramics.

Preparing the Surface:

• Clean the area thoroughly by washing, rinsing, and drying before applying lacquer. Remove any dust or residues.
• Gently roughen smooth glazed areas with fine sandpaper to help the lacquer adhere.
• Absorb any moisture from cracks using a hair dryer on low setting to prevent bubbling.

Applying the Lacquer:

• Use a small fine paintbrush to apply thin coats and get into tight cracks. Multiple thin layers are better than one thick layer.
• Let each layer fully dry before adding the next, usually at least 4-6 hours between coats.
• Build up several layers slowly to get best results. Most products recommend 3-5 coats.

Finishing:

• Once fully cured, use ultra-fine grit sandpaper or a nail file to smooth out any ridges or unevenness.
• Buff gently with a microfiber cloth to restore sheen to surrounding glaze.
• Can top with a very thin layer of clear acrylic sealer for added protection.
• Clean brushes promptly after use with paint thinner or solvent.

Types of Lacquer:

• Most are either acrylic-based or cellulose nitrate. Acrylics are lower odor. Nitrate may yellow over time.
• Colors like white, sky blue, navy blue, beige, gray and black are common. Can blend custom colors.