Replies

1. 
   peter28 | Jun 24, 2008 04:43am | #1

   Glenn,

   What are you applying the shellac with? It sounds like you are just getting over lapped brush strokes. You may consider using a pad as opposed to a brush

   Padding shellac is pretty easy and you don't get brush strokes. 

   If you are getting drips on an edge it is because you are starting at the edge and pulling away from it as opposed to brushing to it. That's just a little tweaking of your application technique.

   What happens when you try to sand one of the ridges; you'll be sanding the top of the "hill" and by the time you have it flat you've also sanded some of the "valley" When this happens you get those little sand throughs in the color.

   You can swipe a bit of shellac over these sand throughs prior to re coloring. Consider using a dash of shellac on your finger tip to do it. This will reseal the surface allowing you to touch up the color. 

   To replace the color, I would use a small brush that is very lightly charged with the gel stain. This is called a "dry brush". Or, I'll take a paper towel folded over 3 or 4 times to make a point that I'll charge with the gel stain. Be careful to only have a little color on it, not dripping wet.

   I'll apply a little color and then make a fist. Use the heel of your fist to lightly tap the color. This disperses any application lines and you can decide if it needs more or less. Since you have resealed it you can wipe the gel stain off and do it again if required. 

   When you are complete, let it sit for a week or two prior to waxing. It's always best to let a finish cure prior to waxing.

   Good luck.

   Peter

1. 
   Missionstyleglenn | Jun 24, 2008 06:00am | #2

   Peter28,Wow, great response! Yes, I am using a brush and you are right, I am getting overlapping brush strokes. Your technique for edge drips seems right on - thanks. I will try all of your tips. I am sure it will come out much better. Big thanks!!Glenn

2. 
   4runner | Jun 26, 2008 07:17pm | #3

   I've been intrigued by the natural look of wood and hate all th shine I see on furniture. I'm putting this out and expect a lot of feed back. When you finish wood you get some kind of coating that obscures the wood and detracts from all the detail you build into a good design that incorporates highlights and shadows. Also when the piece is damaged you have to remove the finish, repair the damage and then try to match the finish. I started with a 30% 30% 30% mixture of boiled linseed oil, naptha (turps works well) and Varathane floor varnish. Varathane is an excellent hard floor varnish. I wipe this on and after a short rest period I wipe it off. No brush marks good coverage, etc. It takes  about 3 coats. I wanted something with a little faster build up so now I use 50% varnish, 25% boiled linseed oil, and 25% naptha. This can't sit long before you wipe it off so I'm going to add more oil. Also I get a nice build up with only 2 coats, 3 coats is a little to much shine but I hoping the additional oil will solve both problems. But the idea is that you have something to work with that does a great job. If you need to repair it go about your normal routine then simply wipe on another coat. Now I've heard about all the fuss of lacquer and how it melts into the previous layer and is simply great, but the last sentence in  any article is that it doesn't provide "enough" protection. Try the above and see for yourself.

   4Runner