Layers of painting
Layer upon layer of paint is used. Each layer must dry before the next layer can
be applied.
Polishing
The traditional Vietnamese lacquer painting technique requires the final lacquer
painting to be polished to a smooth mirror-like surface. However, modern Vietnamese
artists do not always follow this rule, liking an irregular surface as the finish.
Scrubbing
Some Vietnamese artists say that scubbing or rubbing is the art of lacquer painting.
With numerous layers of paint scrubbing brings out the different layers of colour,
which can create a beautiful luminescent finish.
Materials
The materials used can vary, but traditional lacquer is naturally occurring in a
special type of tree. Silver and gold leaf, to help add a luminescent finish, eggshell
and mother of pearl, to add an irregular yet beautiful natural finish to areas of
the painting.