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I have french polished a sideboard top and have achieved a fairly good gloss after the “bodying” stage. My understanding from books and Mr Jewitt’s video, is that the last step is to use alcohol only, on the cotton gauze core material used in the tampon, to gently clear off any pad lubricating oil which has migrated to the surface, and buff it out with pressure. When I do this, it dulls the gloss and creates fine scratches. How many days must opne wait before “spititing off”? Any other tricks? Thanks for your advice
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Replies
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Jay, sounds like one of two things...
1) you're using too much pressure with the plegette of alcohol... or too little alcohol to acheive a "float".
or...
2) the shellac is still soft from the alcohol "float" and has to harden fully before buffing.
Temperature and humidity dependant... it's ready or not. Placing the sideboard in sunlight does seem to speed the process, but may darken the finish.
*Jay,Do you know how to put wax polish on shoes and buff them out with a shoe brush? If not, find an old godger and get them to explain.Let the shellac dry a couple of days. Make a little ball out of cheesecloth large enough to fit comfortably in your hand. DAMPEN with alcohol. Lightly buff (don't rub...BUFF) back and forth to remove oil and bring to a sheen. The alcohol will disolve the shellac if you use too much or work one area too long. Use the same pressure and motion that you would use buffing shoes.
*I am a novice, but I am looking for the formula for French Polish. I heard it is denatured alcohol and shellac but do not know the amounts, if I am right. Thank you in advance. Jerry
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