please bear with me on this.

subject===bowl from a board (economy bowl). So you will have some end grain. I picked a bowl from a board instead of a segmented bowl b/c segmented bowls are mostly side grain

object==to obtain a decent gloss finish . economically.

Material===lacquer----NOT POLY

Is there any advantage/disadvantage to using matte or semi gloss as a "base" coat(s) before applying several coats of gloss?

Both base coats & finish coats from a rattle can.

My thoughts are the matte/semi gloss will fill the end grain in the wood and build to a finish more economically (?) than using gloss for all the coats. And as a benefit probably less sanding in between coats.

Spray a couple of base coats, sanding in between where & if necessary, then finish with the appropriate amount of gloss coats to achieve the desired sheen/shine .

alternatively:

Spraying on matte/semi gloss and then wiping on a gloss finish.

Thoughts???

I'm the world's worst finisher. Hold several gold metals in messing up a turning after hours of sanding. I can NEVER lacquer to look nice, it's always looking like orange peel. That said, I can't get poly as a nice finish either☹️

Maybe @kmealy might be along to offer some advice.