Shellac is weird stuff. Comes from bugs. Dissolves in alcohol. Dries in minutes. Been around forever and still works amazing.
Why Bother With It
That warm amber glow on antique furniture? Usually shellac. Nothing else looks quite like it. Modern poly looks plastic in comparison.
It dries crazy fast. You can build multiple coats in a single day. Try that with oil-based finishes.
Mixing Your Own
Buy flakes. Dissolve them in denatured alcohol. A “two-pound cut” means two pounds of flakes per gallon of alcohol. That’s a good starting point.
Fresh shellac works best. Old stuff from the can at the hardware store? Might never dry right. Make it yourself if you’re serious about this.
Putting It On
Brush or pad – both work. Thin coats. Like way thinner than you think. Let it dry, sand lightly with 320 grit, do it again.
French polish is the fancy method. Pad with shellac and oil, rubbed in circles. Takes practice. Looks incredible when done right. Like glass.
The Catches
Water marks it. So does alcohol. Set a wet glass down? White ring. Spill wine? Problem.
Not heat resistant either. Hot coffee mug will leave a mark.
Best for things that won’t get abused. Display pieces. Interiors of drawers and boxes. Picture frames. It’s got its place – just not on kitchen tables.
