1. The shape, made from either MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or raw timber, is examined and any cracks or indentations are sealed with lacquer from the native lacquer tree ("rhus seccedanea" tree, "anacardium occidentale" tree family) in Phu Tho Province, located northeast of Hanoi.
2. After checking that the lacquer has not affected the intended shape of the item, the product is then covered with a fine cotton gauze to ensure that there will be no cracking at a later stage.
3. Next, the piece is covered with a thick coating which is a mixture of natural lacquer, finely ground mountain rock, sawdust and alluvial soil.
4. When this coating has dried, the product is placed under fresh water and sanded.
5. Using a brush made from natural fibers, a mixture of alluvial soil and natural lacquer is painted onto the product.
6. Step 4 is repeated.
7. Step 5 is repeated.
8. Step 4 is repeated.
9. The product is now covered with pure natural lacquer.
10. Lacquer is beaten for 24 hours to form a glutinous mixture. This mixture is then applied to the piece as a thick coating.
11. Once again, the product is sanded under water.
12. Step 10 is repeated.
13. Step 11 is repeated.
14. The base design is stenciled in and the details are painted by hand, which makes every lacquer product an original piece. No two pieces are exactly alike.
15. The bare surface area is painted with traditional lacquer and the areas with designs are painted with clear lacquer.
16. Once again, the product is given a second coat of clear lacquer.
17. A third coat of clear lacquer is then applied.
18. The product is polished.
19. Hinges and locks are fitted.
20. The logo is silk screened onto the base of the product. The piece is carefully inspected and packed.


LACQUER PROCESS AND CARE

Each creation from Vietnam Art is the result of a time-honored process. Our lacquer ware are completely made by hand in Vietnam. No two pieces are exactly alike. They have 18 layers of coating which makes them very durable. However, lacquer ware should be handled carefully. Here are few techniques to maintain its beauty and quality:

Store
- Keep out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.
- Keep your lacquer ware in a balanced climate (average: 60% humidity).
- When storing in a fully air-conditioned environment, lay flat with a weight on top for several weeks.

Clean
- Do not use chemicals and hot water to clean.
- Do not soak.
- Use a dry or damp cloth to wipe away dust and moisture.
- Hand wash with mild dish detergent, no dishwasher.
- Rinse with warm water and dry immediately.