In the woodworking world, shellac was once considered the ultimate finish for wood. However, in recent years, the popularity of shellac has waned due to the rise of modern finishes like polyurethane. But what many woodworkers fail to realize is that shellac still has numerous advantages and is a fantastic finish for many projects. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of using shellac, how to apply it properly, and when it is the ideal choice for your woodworking projects.
Benefits of Shellac as a Wood Finish One of the main reasons why woodworkers should consider using shellac is its fast and easy application. Unlike other finishes that require extensive drying time, shellac dries incredibly quickly, allowing you to move on to the next coat almost immediately. This means that you can complete the entire finishing process in just a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the project’s size, rather than waiting for days.
Furthermore, shellac can adhere to almost any other finish, making it versatile and compatible with other coatings. Whether you want to apply it over tongue oil, boil linseed oil, or even polyurethane, it will bond effectively as long as it is dewaxed. This ease of compatibility also makes shellac easy to repair, even years down the line, ensuring that your finished project remains in top condition.
Another advantage of shellac is its eco-friendliness. Made from the excretion of the Lac Beetle, pure shellac contains no petroleum products and is even used as a food coating. It is safe for the environment and emits a pleasant smell, making it an excellent choice for use inside drawers or cabinets where odors can be a concern.
Types and Colors of Shellac Shellac comes in different colors, ranging from light blonde to deep brown, which are determined by the type of tree the Lac Beetle fed on. These colors can be utilized to enhance the appearance of different wood types, such as giving kiln-dried Walnut a lively boost or creating a mellow aged look on lighter woods like Pine or Maple. Additionally, aniline dyes can be added to shellac to create custom wood stains, providing endless possibilities for customization.
Why Shellac Isn’t More Commonly Used Despite its many advantages, shellac is not as widely used in woodworking projects. One reason for this is that it does not produce a bulletproof, plastic-like shell like polyurethane or other modern finishes. While shellac can be durable and has been used on floors for centuries, its susceptibility to alcohol means that it may not be the best choice for a tabletop. Additionally, some woodworkers may be intimidated by shellac due to misconceptions about its application process, leading them to opt for more straightforward finishes.
Using Shellac To overcome any uncertainties about using shellac, it is advisable to start with pre-mixed cans available at most stores. There are two versions to choose from: seal coat and regular shellac. Seal coat is an extra-thin shellac that can be particularly beneficial when preventing wood from absorbing stain or blotching. It serves as both a sanding sealer and a complete wood finish, albeit requiring more coats.
On the other hand, regular shellac is more concentrated and can be diluted with alcohol based on your desired thickness. If you prefer ready-to-use shellac, seal coat is a convenient option, while regular shellac can be more cost-effective in the long run if you have a good source of pure alcohol for dilution.
It is crucial to note that if you plan on applying other finishes over shellac, dewaxed shellac is necessary. While seal coat is dewaxed, regular shellac contains wax, making it suitable only for further coats of shellac or paste wax. Therefore, always verify whether your chosen shellac is dewaxed or not.
How to Make Shellac from Flakes While pre-mixed cans are readily available, some woodworkers prefer the control and flexibility of dissolving shellac flakes themselves. Flake form shellac eliminates any shelf life concerns and allows for creating the desired amount for a specific project. To make shellac from flakes, a simple formula is used: four times the liquid measurement in ounces of alcohol to the weight measurement in ounces of flakes.
For example, to make a quart of shellac, you would mix 32 ounces of alcohol with 8 ounces of flakes. The flakes should be finely ground, either using a coffee grinder or dissolving them as they are. Denatured alcohol is commonly used for dissolution, while alternatives like pure isopropyl alcohol or high-proof clear grain alcohol can be utilized if necessary.
Conclusion Shellac remains an exceptional choice for woodworkers seeking a fast, easy-to-use, and versatile finish. Its quick drying time, compatibility with other finishes, and ease of repair make it a valuable addition to any woodworking project. With different colors available and the option to dissolve flakes for a customized solution, shellac offers endless possibilities for enhancing the appearance of your woodwork. So don’t be afraid to step outside the realm of modern finishes and explore the benefits of using shellac - you may find that it saves you valuable time and produces stunning results!
