How to apply laquer

In this section we will explain how to apply lacquer to your Japanese natural hone. This method is good for hones without cracks in the sides, if you have a hone with cracks in the side please view this how to.

What you will need:
1x Japanese natural hone
1x strong and durable paint brush
1x 20ml bottle of lacquer
1x small plastic container 1x piece of paper cut out a few mm smaller than the size of the honing surface of the hone
Qty of tape.

Now that you have the required equipment, it is a straight forward procedure. First Put the paper on the honing surface and tape the edges carefully. DO NOT try to use tape on the entire honing surface, as many tapes tend to leave a sticky residue which is difficult to remove. Next pour half the lacquer into the small plastic container, then replace lid on lacquer bottle. Dip the tip of the brush lightly into the lacquer (You don't want to submerge the bristles in the lacquer). Start applying the lacquer onto the sides of the hone, spreading the lacquer thinly and evenly. Lacquering the base isn't as necessary, because it is the sides of Japanese naturals that absorb water at a faster rate than the surface and base. We tend to coat the base of our hones as well as the sides, but if the hone were attached to a wooden base, or had a skin on the base, we would only lacquer the sides. Once you have applied the lacquer, let it sit in a place undisturbed for approximately one week, so that the lacquer can cure. After the lacquer has cured, repeat same steps using remaining lacquer. Once the second coat has cured, remove the paper from the hone's surface, clean off any remaining residue, and enjoy honing with peace of mind, that you have taken preventative measures to ensure the durability of your Japanese natural hone.

The lacquer can be diluted with mineral turpentine for thinner application. Our personal preference is not to dilute the lacquer.