07-01-2012, 07:58 PM
Hi,
I'm pleased the website link is useful for you Paul and you are most welcome.
Regarding how many shellac coats to apply before flatting I think Mark is bang on as there are a number of variables involved. The "Cut" of the shellac will dictate to a great extent how much shellac is applied at each coat. Thin shellac will go on very easy but build up less than thick shellac.
Choice of application also plays a part; rubber; brush or mop? Even different brushes give different results; a course brush will leave a rougher finish than a smooth brush such as a "Mop" and the skill of the person applying the shellac has to be taken into account.
I would apply a minimum of four coats before flatting as flatting too soon there is increased risk of cutting through on corners and edges to bare veneer or timber which must be avoided at all costs. The more coats that can be applied before flatting is better but shellac is not the easiest material to apply as it can't be brushed out the same way that paint can because it sets up too quickly.
I apply shellac just the right side of panic; slap it on and level it quickly then leave well alone; trying to work it like paint will end up with a sticky mess leaving a very rough surface. The trick is to apply enough shellac to give a decent thickness which will allow proper flatting removing all surface blemishes such as tramlines; brush marks and any small bits of debris leaving a perfectly flat; matt surface ready for working with a rubber if a traditional high gloss is required.
As you say Paul; French polishing (applying shellac) is very therapeutic and as long as patience is employed there is no reason a beautiful finish cannot be achieved from the very first attempt ; you've already demonstrated this with your first job which I sincerely hope encourages others to have a go with shellac.
I'm with you regarding Danish Oil Paula but I refrain from commenting on other members projects if they decide to go the oil route because after all it is their project hence their choice of finish. I would never use an oiled finish on any of my sets.
Kind regards, Col.
I'm pleased the website link is useful for you Paul and you are most welcome.
Regarding how many shellac coats to apply before flatting I think Mark is bang on as there are a number of variables involved. The "Cut" of the shellac will dictate to a great extent how much shellac is applied at each coat. Thin shellac will go on very easy but build up less than thick shellac.
Choice of application also plays a part; rubber; brush or mop? Even different brushes give different results; a course brush will leave a rougher finish than a smooth brush such as a "Mop" and the skill of the person applying the shellac has to be taken into account.
I would apply a minimum of four coats before flatting as flatting too soon there is increased risk of cutting through on corners and edges to bare veneer or timber which must be avoided at all costs. The more coats that can be applied before flatting is better but shellac is not the easiest material to apply as it can't be brushed out the same way that paint can because it sets up too quickly.
I apply shellac just the right side of panic; slap it on and level it quickly then leave well alone; trying to work it like paint will end up with a sticky mess leaving a very rough surface. The trick is to apply enough shellac to give a decent thickness which will allow proper flatting removing all surface blemishes such as tramlines; brush marks and any small bits of debris leaving a perfectly flat; matt surface ready for working with a rubber if a traditional high gloss is required.
As you say Paul; French polishing (applying shellac) is very therapeutic and as long as patience is employed there is no reason a beautiful finish cannot be achieved from the very first attempt ; you've already demonstrated this with your first job which I sincerely hope encourages others to have a go with shellac.
I'm with you regarding Danish Oil Paula but I refrain from commenting on other members projects if they decide to go the oil route because after all it is their project hence their choice of finish. I would never use an oiled finish on any of my sets.
Kind regards, Col.
Happiness is a wreck of a cabinet to restore.
