If too much Linseed Oil is applied, the surface will have a smeary effect, as the linseed Oil does not dry quickly like the French Polish. The “rubber” should be charged with French Polish that has been thinned with Methylated Spirits and at this stage the rubber should be squeezed so that it is almost dry.
How do I prepare for French polishing?
Pro Tips for French Polishing Wood
- Start by sanding.
- Mix your shellac.
- Make your dabber.
- Start with your sealer coat.
- Fill in open grain with pumice powder.
- Begin to French polish in earnest.
- Spirit the finish.
- Repeat as necessary.
How do you prepare wood for French polishing?
What is French polishing and how is it done?
French Polishing is the name given to the process of coating wood with a solution of shellac dissolved in alcohol, using a “rubber” made of rag and cotton wool instead of with a brush. The alcohol evaporates, leaving the shellac deposited upon the wood.
What is French polishing or shellac coating?
French Polishing is the name given to the process of coating wood with a solution of shellac dissolved in alcohol, using a “rubber” made of rag and cotton wool instead of with a brush. The alcohol evaporates, leaving the shellac deposited upon the wood. When applied correctly it produces what is possibly the finest looking finish for furniture.
How do you fill the grain of wood before French polishing?
If the wood is open grained and a smooth mirror- like surface is required, the grain should be filled, before French polishing, with Grain filler, or extra coats of French Polish must be applied which are then cut back with fine glass or garnet paper until the grain has been filled with the polish.
What are French polishes made of?
French polishes are made up from flakeshellac dissolved in methylated spirit. The type of shellac used can vary incolour from a light clear colour to a dark brown colour:
