Fast Shellac Finish
How to build an attractive finish in three easy steps.
Synopsis: If you’ve shied away from shellac because you once tried to brush it straight from the can, or if you’ve been put off by the thought of a French polish, it’s time to give this versatile, fast-drying finish a second look. The keys to success are excellent surface preparation and using thinned shellac so it goes on easily. Using this technique, you’ll get a nice satin finish that’s friendly to the touch in about a half hour.
Shellac is a finish that a lot of woodworkers shy away from. If you’ve ever tried to brush it on straight from the can, you probably didn’t like it very much. And if you’ve read an article on the fine art of French polishing, you’re forgiven if you were left feeling a little intimidated.
The truth is that shellac is a great fast-drying…
Start your 14-day FREE trial to continue reading this story.
Plus, access more than 1,900 in-depth articles and more when you become a member.
Start Your Free Trial NowAlready a member? Log In
Comments
Mike, more a question than a comment. In this article you advise: "Shellac dries fast, so you can finish parts without
slowing down assembly. This means you can prefinish components like these dividers that would
be hard to reach after glue-up." I agree with the advantage of access to the parts pre-assembly, but wonder, do I need to avoid pre-finishing any surfaces which will be part of a glued joint in final assembly?
Is there a project plan available for the item shown in the photos of this article?
Thank you,
George Irwin
I don't think so. I'm pretty sure it's in Mike's first book.
Ben, I got Mike's first book and made the Tea Chest--take a look. I ran out of stock on the mystery wood so the back panel and drawer fronts are something else. I decided I like Mike's style so I made his wall hanging cabinet too and I just signed up for Mike's class in January. Thanks so much for the tip. I think you and Mike have set me onto my next journey. I like the "sticky-outie dovetails".
Thanks again-George. (BTW, we met at the Lie-Nielsen Lobster-Fest a few years ago. Great event!)
I'll (virtually) see ya there!
Thanks Ben! I'll look for the book.
Log in or become a member to post a comment.
Sign up Log in