Son Mai

Son Mai lacquer has been made in Vietnam for centuries and is among the world's finest. Every piece we make is made by hand in Saigon.

Son Mai

Son Mai is a build-up of many layers rather than a coating. Each layer is applied, left to dry in its own time and wet-sanded back by hand before the next one goes on. Our craftsmen work to their own instincts and experience, which is why no two pieces come out identical.

The process

Sinh

Base layers of Sinh are applied first, a glue-like substance that hardens and protects the wood. We sand between each layer to help the Sinh absorb. Larger pieces are wrapped in thin cotton gauze to strengthen the finish and prevent cracking.

Hom

Natural lacquer is applied next, mixed with fine ground mountain rock, alluvium soil and cashew nut shell oil. This mix is known as Hom. Each layer dries in its own time, then is wet-sanded in fresh water with fine carbon paper until perfectly smooth. We repeat this over and over again.

Lot

The next layers are known as Lot. Mostly cashew nut shell oil, they form a strong lining beneath the colour.

Colour

The colour goes on last, wet-sanded in layers, and any decoration is hand painted.

Finish

There is no prescribed drying time and no set number of layers. Whatever the finish, from ultra matte to high gloss, the lacquer is applied and polished until it is right.

Looking after it

Handmade lacquer is a delicate material and can be scratched or marred. Read the care guide.