I have some shelach flakes and need to mix up some to put a couple of coats on my bow front table.

 

I had a chart to show the ratio of flakes to DNA but can't seem to locate it.

 

An of you know the formula? I am a little tired and lazy tonight.

 

 

2, 3 or 4 pound cuts are the most common and all are related to one gallon DNC.

So a 1 lb cut to 1 gallon DNC, then ratio it down from there. 8oz to a half gallon, 4oz to a quart, 2oz to a pint, etc etc. Hope this helps John, and I hope I am right!!!!

John thanks for the response.

I was kinda tired and lazy and didn't want to look for the chart I had seen.

Here it the one I was looking for and it might help others if you are mixing shellac.

Dissolving & Mixing Shellac Flakes

'Pound Cut' Chart

Make your liquid shellac solutions using a high grade Denatured Alcohol (190 proof anhydrous is ideal for dissolving shellac flake) and also, Behlen Behkol Denatured Alcohol. Mix what will be used within 3 months. Select a glass or plastic container slightly larger than the amount you are making ((do not use metal)(Don't ask how I know this part). The larger container will allow for the added from adding the flake.

Temperatures under 60° F will slow the dissolving.

A hot water bath can assist in cold weather. - - Warning: DO NOT use direct heat.

Keep alcohol and liquid shellac away from open flame or burners.

Add shellac to the liquid (crushing button lac will speed dissolving) Stir or Shake every 15 -30 minutes. Let solution stand in a warm environment (with occasional agitation) until shellac is completely dissolved. There may be sediment and organic particles depending on the type of lac. Strain all types through cheesecloth, white cotton cloth, or paint strainer. We find straining through a paint strainer first then through T-shirt or multiple layers of cheese-cloth helpful.

Store your shellac, tightly stoppered or sealed, in a cool dark location. In our shop the coolest place, outside the fridge, in hot weather is on the cement slab under the bench.

In general a "2 Pound Cut" is a good place to start. Several thinner coats are often easier to apply and finish than few heaver coats. work methods, tools, weather, and environment will dictate your 'pound cut' preference. A 3 pound cut is generally reserved for priming or sealing of stains, and sap, or knots prior to painting, especially on softer woods. Always use a Dewaxed Shellac as a primer under paint or as a seal-coat under clear finishes.

I got this information from Shellac.Net

That chart will handy to print and and keep close by in the shop.