Tony H Posted October 14, 2013 Share #1 Posted October 14, 2013 Hi all What are your views with regard to Shellac, I'm considering using this sanding sealing product, hopefully to bring out the woods natural colour. Would enjoy considering all those experienced views. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Q A's Revenge Posted October 14, 2013 Share #2 Posted October 14, 2013 I'd be interested to hear folks views as well as I normally use cellulose sanding sealer on wood projects. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tony H Posted October 14, 2013 Author Share #3 Posted October 14, 2013 From what I've researched Keith Julier in his book 'Period ship a builders manual', he suggests that 'Shellac'serves well for a finish, bringing out the true colour of the wood, and when applied and rubbed down with really fine abrasive paper (1500 grit) it produces a truly flat and hard surface. Further research stated that this finished surface is susceptible to damage, but can easily be repaired, whereas cellulose based finished surfaces can prove difficult to repair. Shellac is used in french polishing, and was popular, up until the 1930's, when other products proved quicker and required less effort. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Q A's Revenge Posted October 14, 2013 Share #4 Posted October 14, 2013 If it's used on its own to seal the surface and bring out the grain then I expect Cellulose to be more durable and faster drying. For use under French polishing then Shellac would be best. That's my understanding anyway. If the smell of Cellulose sanding sealer is a problem then you can use a water based Acrylic sanding sealer. As said though I only use Cellulose. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tony H Posted October 18, 2013 Author Share #5 Posted October 18, 2013 Did a test run using Shellac, put a coat down and allowed to to dry, used a 1500 grit paper to break the surface, then applied two more coats of Shellac, got a lovely finish, exactly what I was looking for. In my humble opinion, I would say the finish looks more authentic than modern cellulose varnish, and its looks realistic. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Q A's Revenge Posted October 20, 2013 Share #6 Posted October 20, 2013 This is a good article. http://www.homesteadfinishingproducts.com/htdocs/ChoosingFinish.htm I've not used Acrylic before but given the footnote I think I'll give it a try if I need to finish any light coloured wood! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tony H Posted October 20, 2013 Author Share #7 Posted October 20, 2013 Interesting article, not just with regard to shellac, but alternatives too. Will bear this advice in future, horses for courses! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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