Whether to Use a Pumice Rub on Pre-Cat

Finishers try rubbing out a pre-catalyzed lacquer finish with pumice, and like the results. November 24, 2008

Question
Is it okay to rub pre-cat lacquer with pumice? I am finishing a table top made of walnut veneer. I used pre-cat lacquer as the topcoat because of its durability, but I really love the feel and depth that pumice rubs provide.

Forum Responses
(Finishing Forum)
From contributor R:
I don't think you should rub out a pre-cat lacquer, but it would not be the first time I am wrong. What look are you going for? I sometimes wax over a lacquer finish, but only after a month and only for a different look. I thought a rub out was only used for polyester finishes or 2K urethanes! I would think that there would be swirl marks all over the place unless you are polishing after the pumice rub-out.

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From contributor J:
Have at it. I have been doing it for years with good results.

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From the original questioner:
Thanks, contributor J - I took your advice and I could not be happier with the results. It achieved a perfect angular brilliance but has a soft satin sheen when viewed from above. Very pleasing to the touch and rivals the finish on the best furniture in the home.