The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

Furniture Finishing

Of course there are several manufacturers making each of these parts of the equipment and there are various styles to choose from. This field is rapidly undergoing changes and one should secure literature from the different manufacturers of this equipment if contemplating a purchase. Full directions for operation is furnished the purchaser and service is given by most of the gun manufacturers.

The air scrubber, or oil and water extractor, as it is commonly called, is an absolute necessity in spraying lacquers or shellac. A very little oil in the lacquer will prevent quick drying and sometimes cause a great deal of trouble. Water of course will cause blushing, or a white film in the lacquer or shellac. A very cheap but effective scrubber can be made by cutting a piece of pipe three feet long and four inches in diameter, cutting threads on each end and capping.

A tap should be made in the center of each end for the air hose connection, or the bottom tap can be on the side near the end and a tap in the bottom for a pet-cock to drain off the air and moisture. A fine mesh screen should be placed at the top, about one inch away, to prevent packing from clogging up the air line. The packing can be fine wood wool or excelsior lightly pressed into the pipe before placing the bottom cap. The scrubber should be placed upright between the air compressor and the gun, preferably near the spray booth. Whenever there is considerable collection of moisture at the pet-cock the cap should be removed and the excelsior changed for new, clean, dry stock.

The spray booth is a necessity where lacquer materials are used, for the odor must be carried off by a fan for the health and comfort of the workman. For ordinary furniture work a booth just large enough to hold the largest piece of furniture is all that is necessary.

Elevating turn tables are very handy and save time in turning the furniture when spraying.