I’ve experimented with Shellac before, but this is the first time I’ve used it on an actual important project. Here are my observations:
It makes the finishing process go too fast – I like to agonize over a finish, ideally waiting for weeks before the finishing process is complete. With shellac, the entire process can be done in a day or two.
It takes too few steps – Shellac pops the grain and provides a topcoat. I’d really rather buy as many products as I possibly can so I have scores of half empty cans lying around
Cleanup is too easy – There really isn’t any cleanup; you just let the brush dry with the shellac in it and re-dissolve it when you need it next time. I’d rather be elbow deep in toxic chemicals, or better yet, forget to clean the brush and kiss it goodbye.
By now, you must realize I’m kidding. Thanks to Frenchy and others who helped me get over the need to agonize over the finishing process and give shellac a try on a “real” project. Here’s the result.
Edited 1/14/2008 7:12 pm ET by Quickstep
Replies
Wow. Beautiful work. Beautiful finish. Too bad you had to suffer so much while finishing! Would you say that you actually ENJOY finishing now?
Chris @ flairwoodworks
- Success is not the key to happines. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer
quickstep,
Gee I'm sorry! Here I get all excited and talk you into something that was so agonizingly difficult and hard.
Too bad it came out so poorly that you were disappointed. (reponded in an equally kidding manner) ;-)
Glad it worked out for you, spred the word!
hahahha!
don't forget, Frenchy works for the Great American Shellac Company...soon they'll be in your town!
Expert since 10 am.
Gorgeous, Quick! Thanks for a great morning laugh, too!
Quickstep,
Nice job! Well it sounds like you're ready for the ultimate challenge. French Polish!
For Gawds sake don't take to drinking the stuff. But I know you can stop anytime.
Regards,
Bob @ Kidderville Acres
A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!
Edited 1/15/2008 12:44 pm ET by KiddervilleAcres
I don't get it -- why'd you have to shellac the painted balusters?
The rest of the woodwork looks beautiful -- I can really see all the effort you put into with staining and applying a poly. That must have taken weeks!
;-)
<<tongue planted firmly in cheek>>
Glen
P.S. Nice work!
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