February 29, 201214 yr We have been having a discussion in the Cedar Chest thread about the use of shellac I used as a seal coat. Gene Howe has the following questions about Shellac so I though it might be good if we opened a discussion on the subject and got the input from others.Gene's QuestionsNot to belabor this, but, I'm clueless about shellac and I'd like to use it.Is the 3 lb cut in DNA ratios/formula available? Do you mix it the same for spraying as for brushing? Why do you use it as a seal coat instead of just using a poly? Can you recommend any reading about uses? I know it's not a very durable final coat.This is a great article on Shellac written by Jeff Jewitt.This site also contains a lot of good information about Shellac.On the above site there is a good 'pound cut' chart.I like to use it as a seal coat on a lot of the pieces I make. I use the clear or blonde color shellac and it seals the grain so that if you are using a clear finish on the it just gives it a good base to adhere to.It is a great product in that it is food safe also.It is a natural product so it is environmentally safe also.It comes in many different colors which can add a tint to the project.John Moody Site Administrator John Moody Woodworkshttp://www.johnmoodywoodworks.com
February 29, 201214 yr I love it John, the colors it comes in give the user a great array of tones to add to their finishing. Amber shellac, beautiful rich amber tone, especially when you apply a coat of BLO before the shellac.The idea out there that it is not durable is in my opinion flawed. It was used for centuries as the final coat on many fine furnishings. While it may not be the best at protecting a piece submerged in water, it does hold up well to regular use in the home. Not to mention it is easily repairable as all that is needed is to reactivate the shellac with DNA to get rid of that pesky water ring left by a sweating glass of something. After the reactivation you can blend in a fresh spot treatment of shellac. Shellac is the easiest of finishes to repair. While writing this reply I did a quick search on google about shellac to support my beliefs and I came up with this, it is a short article on Shellac and the myths that surround this under rated "Final" finish, not just a good sanding sealer, it's a great final finish as well!Go to SHELLAC to see more. It's a great article.John MorrisThe Patriot WoodworkerProud Supporter of Wounded Warrior Project and Homes For Our Troops
February 29, 201214 yr Oh shoot! I see you linked the same article John! Well great minds think alike.John MorrisThe Patriot WoodworkerProud Supporter of Wounded Warrior Project and Homes For Our Troops
February 29, 201214 yr Author Thanks for jumping in there John. I love to use shellac and you are right it is really easy to use and repair if you make a mistake.John MoodySite AdministratorJohn Moody Woodworkshttp://www.johnmoodywoodworks.com
February 29, 201214 yr Hey John and John, Thanks a lot for the links and info. Gene'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton
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