Hey everyone! I've just made a walnut cabinet for my HiFi and I'm planning to finish it with Shellac for the first time. I recently purchased both Garnet and Blond Shellac flakes, and I want to experiment with them on some scrap walnut pieces to see which color I prefer. However, I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the different methods out there for applying Shellac. Here are a few specific things I'd like advice on: 1) What's the recommended cut to use (in pounds per gallon)? 2) How many coats should I apply? 3) Should I stick to the same cut for all coats, or change it up? 4) What's the best method for applying it – with a brush or cloth? 5) Do all coats need to be applied the same way? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
4 Answers
You know what, it’s really all about what feels right for you! I generally do a two-pound cut and adjust how many coats based on the look I want. If you’re going for more of a natural feel, 2-3 coats are perfect, but keep going until you achieve the gloss you desire. And don’t be afraid to change up your application method for different areas if it helps get the results you want. Good luck with the cabinet!
I swear by applying Shellac with just a wipe-on approach, especially for a flawless finish without brush marks. It might require a few extra coats, but I’ve had great results using this method! Also, Garnet Shellac looks stunning on walnut, just a couple of coats really elevate the look. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for your style.
For starting off, I usually just buy premade Shellac and thin it a bit with denatured alcohol, around 25%. It helps it absorb better and gives a smoother finish. I apply it using a lint-free cloth to avoid brush strokes. As for coats, three thin ones are typically what I go for, and don’t stress about maintaining the same cut for every layer since Shellac melts into itself. Don't forget to buff your final coat with some 0000 steel wool or a scotch Brite pad for a silky finish!
When mixing your Shellac, consider making smaller batches like 8-16 ounces to prevent waste. A one-pound cut means one pound of Shellac mixed with a gallon of alcohol. For application, I like the French polish method, mixing 1/3 Shellac, 1/3 alcohol, and 1/3 boiled linseed oil. It gives a nice glide and a smooth finish. Apply more thin coats instead of a few thick ones to get the best results! You can even fix imperfections by lightly sanding and wiping on more Shellac to mix with the existing layers.