Birch Plywood & EM6500... Do I need to use a primer?

[Tim Malyszko]

It's been a couple of years since I've spray finished something white and am also switching from my Compressor based HVLP Setup to a Fuji Q4 Gold Turbine Setup. With that being said, my previous finish used Sherwin Williams Pro Block Primer followed by Target USL to achieve the finish I wanted.

Now I have a project that consists of 3 white book shelves made from Birch Plywood and Poplar that will be finished using EM6500 and then EM9000 Gloss to achieve the sheen I'm looking for. However, I'm unsure weather or not I even need to use a primer and if I do, what is the ideal primer to use with this combo of EM6500 and Birch Plywood.

Any advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[Jim Becker]

You do not need a primer with the EM6500. You will get some grain raise with any water borne, so after you spray your first two light coats, hit the piece with some 320 to knock down all the nibs and smooth things out. Then process with your additional finishing coats.

[Tim Malyszko]

Thanks Jim. That was the answer I hoped to hear.