Cheers for the advice guys! Yeh i'm using rattle cans to do it, I know it's not the best way but I thought I'd give it a go and its not turned out half bad. The lacquer is acrylic based as is both the paint and the primer (all the same brand). Whilst reading the label on the lacquer I noticed this: 'Use 1200 wet and dry paper to achieve a matte finish'. That'll teach me for jumping into things!

Btw, to sand the lacquer how long would you recommend to leave it before doing so? Its not so specific on the can and I know I have to wait 2 weeks for it to cure.