Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | May 06, 2008 12:33am | #1

   If it has stayed dry and still remain separate flakes you are almost sure to be fine.  Even if they have become clumped together, there is still a chance they are OK.  The test is to see how well they dissolve and how the solution dries. 

   The solvent, presumably just denatured alcohol, should stay good almost indefinately in a sealed can. 

    

    

2. 
   Rich14 | May 06, 2008 01:16am | #2

   Try dissolving them in denatured alcohol. They should completely dissolve in 24-36 hours. Swirl the solution every once in a while.

   Very fresh flakes will easily dissolve without any problem in 24 hours and less. There will be no doubt about the clarity of the solution and the readiness of the shellac to dissolve. There will be no remaining gummy mass swirling around on the bottom of the jar.

   But even flakes that take somewhat longer than 24 hours may be useful. You can decant off the upper solution and use it to see how it dries. If it dries hard to the touch in a few hours it's ok to use.

   I would discard any shellac that leaves undissolved material longer than 36 hours. It's just not worth using shellac that does not dissolve rapidly.

   Rich

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | May 07, 2008 04:29pm | #3

   Rich,

   Should I call a priest or minister if my shellac expires?

   :-)

   Regards,Bob @ Kidderville Acres

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!

1. 
   blewcrowe | May 07, 2008 07:05pm | #4

   Only if your minister is a real flake.

1. 
   nazard | May 08, 2008 12:35am | #5

   blew,

   Good grief but that was excellent!

   Nice dog.

   -nazard

1. 
   philip | May 09, 2008 11:19am | #10

   " 41656.5 in reply to 41656.4
   Only if your minister is a real flake."
   It seems that quite a number of them are- the Pope has said so recently.
   And yes, shellac flakes do have a variable shelf life- I have learned that lesson.Philip Marcou

2. 
   Rich14 | May 08, 2008 02:04am | #6

   Gees,Shellac threads are dangerous around here any more.Use pure ethanol. If the flakes don't dissolve, pour off the alcohol, dilute it with water, say, "Bottoms up!"

1. 
   brad805 | May 09, 2008 01:25am | #7

   What an odd thing for a group to stress about?  Bug secretion. 

   Brad

1. 
   Rich14 | May 09, 2008 03:05am | #8

   Ah, but such special bugs. And such excellent secretions.

2. 
   nazard | May 09, 2008 05:37am | #9

   ...and lac-ing nothing else to do....