Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Need hints on Shellac Application
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01-21-01, 10:56 AM
Hi-
My husband and I are refininshing the tops of an Antique Buffet and Server. We need some hints on how to apply the Amber Shellac. What type of applicator should we use and how to avoid paint brush strokes. Any hints are greatly appreciated.
My husband and I are refininshing the tops of an Antique Buffet and Server. We need some hints on how to apply the Amber Shellac. What type of applicator should we use and how to avoid paint brush strokes. Any hints are greatly appreciated.
George
01-24-01, 05:21 PM
C-A:
There is really only one way to completely avoid brush strokes in applying shellac - don't use a brush.
Now that I've 'smarted off', an explanation. Shellac dries very fast - usually within 30 minutes or less, hence the 'working time' is very short. You can get a relatively brush free coat by just laying it on, 'tipping' it off, and leaving it alone.
The 'old' method of applying shellac doesn't use a brush at all, but a lint free cloth pad. The shellac is rubbed on in combination with pumice (a filler) and oil (a lubricant). This technique is called French Polishing. While not difficult to learn, it is hard to master.
A modern-day technique and boon to furniture refinishers everywhere is padding lacquer. It's applied in the French Polishing manner, but the lacquer has ALL the ingredients in one - filler, finish, and lubricant. No need to try to balance all three at once.
Frankly, I cheat, unless the customer is willing to pay for an authentic French Polish. I apply lacquer with a brush as well as I can, knowling I will leave a few brush marks. I sand the final coat down to get it dead smooth and flat, then apply the final coat of shellac with an aerosol.
There is really only one way to completely avoid brush strokes in applying shellac - don't use a brush.
Now that I've 'smarted off', an explanation. Shellac dries very fast - usually within 30 minutes or less, hence the 'working time' is very short. You can get a relatively brush free coat by just laying it on, 'tipping' it off, and leaving it alone.
The 'old' method of applying shellac doesn't use a brush at all, but a lint free cloth pad. The shellac is rubbed on in combination with pumice (a filler) and oil (a lubricant). This technique is called French Polishing. While not difficult to learn, it is hard to master.
A modern-day technique and boon to furniture refinishers everywhere is padding lacquer. It's applied in the French Polishing manner, but the lacquer has ALL the ingredients in one - filler, finish, and lubricant. No need to try to balance all three at once.
Frankly, I cheat, unless the customer is willing to pay for an authentic French Polish. I apply lacquer with a brush as well as I can, knowling I will leave a few brush marks. I sand the final coat down to get it dead smooth and flat, then apply the final coat of shellac with an aerosol.
01-30-01, 08:09 AM
Hi C-A (love these interesting names) I'd like to add my little bit to what George stated. Specifically, I refer you to what he said re 'cheating':
"Frankly, I cheat, unless the customer is willing to pay for an authentic French Polish. I apply lacquer with a brush as well as I can, knowling I will leave a few brush marks. I sand the final coat down to get it dead smooth and flat, then apply the final coat of shellac with an aerosol."
All I have to add is that you must make a decision. Are you only interested in a nice finish or 'value' of the Buffet? There is absolutely nothing wrong with what What George said, it's your decision.
If that Buffet is REALLY an antique, in reasonable condition then I'd 'push' for you to get it professionally finished (I'm just no fun...). I'm in Australia so I'm not trying to 'drum up' business. However, if YOU want to have the fun at doing it then by all means go for it. I'm only sticking my nose in to offer an alternate view.
Moderators note: Michael is a well versed, all too infrequent correspondent from 'down under'.
[Edited by George on 01-30-01 at 07:10]
"Frankly, I cheat, unless the customer is willing to pay for an authentic French Polish. I apply lacquer with a brush as well as I can, knowling I will leave a few brush marks. I sand the final coat down to get it dead smooth and flat, then apply the final coat of shellac with an aerosol."
All I have to add is that you must make a decision. Are you only interested in a nice finish or 'value' of the Buffet? There is absolutely nothing wrong with what What George said, it's your decision.
If that Buffet is REALLY an antique, in reasonable condition then I'd 'push' for you to get it professionally finished (I'm just no fun...). I'm in Australia so I'm not trying to 'drum up' business. However, if YOU want to have the fun at doing it then by all means go for it. I'm only sticking my nose in to offer an alternate view.
Moderators note: Michael is a well versed, all too infrequent correspondent from 'down under'.
[Edited by George on 01-30-01 at 07:10]