I dove into the world of HVLP spraying a month ago after finding a Fuji setup on sale. So far I’ve been very happy with the quality of finish given my experience level, using Target Coatings EM1000 Sanding Sealer and EM6000 (Semi-Gloss) Lacquer. However I’d like to improve, which leaves me with my first question.
On this particular piece I’m spraying oak. I did a coat of EM1000, sanded with 180. 2nd coat of EM1000 and sanded to 220. Everything seemed acceptably smooth. Then I did two coats (maybe it was 3, I forget) of EM6000 and it seems like I have excessive nits on the surface. I sanded with 400 and did what I hoped was a 3rd/4th (final coat). The nits were reduced (in number), but still there. I was hoping for a glassy finish.
Should I expect a glass finish right off the gun? If not what should I be doing? Less finish? Tightening down the flow control (increase atomization?)? More finish? I know I can experiment, but it would be helpful to be pointed in the right direction.
Second, assuming that I should expect to have to sand after finishing to get a satin or true semi-gloss finish - how far up in sanding do I have to go? 600/800/1000 or will I need to go into buffing compound?
For reference I’ve been using the solowoodworker.com blog as my guide through this process.