Application

Wet-on-Wet Method
Apply the first coat normally, and when dry to the touch with no stickiness (approximately 1 to 2 hours), apply the second or next coat without sanding.  You may recoat without sanding at any time up to 24 hours after the last coat was applied.

Dry Method
Apply a coat, allow to dry completely, sand and repeat.  Why anyone would want to do this we don't know, but people ask all the time.  By using this method you lose at least half of the benefits of using Bristol Finish.  Note that when sanding between coats, you must apply 12 coats to end up with 6 coats on the surface of the high spots.

Practical Method
(for a 6 coat application)  Apply 5 coats in one or two days using the Wet-on-Wet method described above (maximum of 24 hours between coats).  Don't stop because of runs, drips or small amounts of dust.  Allow to dry for a day or two, and sand using 220 grit paper until smooth and uniformly dull.  Use a 3M #7447 red ScotchBrite pad on sharp corners and edges.  Lightly wipe with acetone or lacquer thinner and follow with a tack rag to remove dust  Apply 2 final coats without sanding in between  This method gives you a very fast, easy buildup and the chance to take out any defects with a minimum of labor.  Note that when sanding between coats, one extra coat must be applied for each sanding session, so that there is a minimum of six coats on the surface.

For either method, lay the coating on with the brush, and tip back once in the opposite direction.  Do not excessively work the brush back and forth.

For roller application, use a roller to quickly spread the coating on a 2' x 2' or so area, and tip once with a slightly wet brush.  This technique will require practice (or 2 persons) if you are not an experienced painter.

Spray application should be performed only by qualified professional operators that are familiar with 2 part paint systems.

Using the Satin Additive
The use of our Satin Additive is very easy and straightforward.  Packaged as a separate component, the Satin Additive may be used in small amounts for a light satin effect, or in larger amounts for a completely flat finish, or anything in between.  The Satin Additive comes with complete directions for mixing and use.

When a satin or flat appearance is desired, we advise that all buildup coats be applied by using the normal high gloss product, and then the final coat is applied with the Satin Additive mixed in.

Cure Times
Bristol Finish does not have maximum strength or solvent resistance until fully cured.  Allow a minimum of 48 hours before re-assembly of hardware or hard service when temperatures are above 70 degrees F.  More time will be required in colder temperatures, or when working indoors with inadequate ventilation.

General Considerations
Achieving a beautiful brightwork job requires good, basic painting skills.  This is not a requirement that is particular to Bristol Finish , but to every varnish or paint product known to man.  Improperly sized (too small for the work piece) brushes, overbrushing or losing the wet edge will guarantee bad looking results.  Our favorite technique description is nice and simple- lay the coating on, and use a maximum of 3 brush strokes.  1 stroke to apply the coating, 1 to spread it out, and the final stroke to tip off the brush marks.  Always make your final stroke back into the wet area, and reduce the pressure as you move along, just like an airplane taking off.  Use the largest brush that will fit the work piece. Always make the final stroke back into the wet area, with decreasing pressure.

This is not a new technique- we found this in the 1879 edition of VanNostrands.  It is still true today.