Hey fellow woodworkers! I'm just starting out in woodworking and I've been diving into finishes. I picked up some waxed shellac, but I keep hearing that most folks prefer dewaxed shellac. I think waxed shellac might offer better protection on its own, while dewaxed is better for applying other finishes like polyurethane afterwards. I get that shellac may not hold up against moisture and wear very well. But I'm curious, what are the advantages of using waxed shellac? Is it worth the hype in certain projects?
4 Answers
The main reason people lean towards dewaxed shellac is because of the way it enhances the wood’s appearance. Waxed shellac can make things look cloudy and dim the wood’s natural beauty, whereas dewaxed shellac really makes that wood figure pop. It's also great for sealing before layering with poly. Waxed shellac is best for those simpler projects where you're aiming for a matte finish. It's super easy to apply too! But honestly, dewaxed is often preferred because it just works better in most cases.
I've dabbled with both as well. While I usually reach for dewaxed shellac, I have some waxed on hand for when I need a specific color. The downside? If you plan to put a different finish over it, stick to dewaxed. Shellac’s great, but I wouldn’t use it for projects like kitchen cabinets or dining tables—just not as durable as polyurethane. I like using thin coats with a rag; you can achieve a really nice finish regardless of which type you're using.
Honestly, I thought the only plus about waxed shellac was that it’s cheaper and easier to find. If you're looking for that polished classic look, you should really try the French polish technique—it’s elegant for low-wear surfaces. Just be cautious of what you’re using it on.
Waxed shellac flakes are actually cool to use for a finish. If you’re planning to put a topcoat over it, like polyurethane or varnish, dewaxed shellac is definitely the way to go because it seals the wood really well. I usually recommend a coat of wax over either type for an extra smooth finish. But, for a stand-alone option, waxed shellac has its place too! Just remember that if you're layering finishes, dewaxed is the champ here.