I’ve recently used Shellac (dewaxed flakes) for the first time as a top coat over a water based dye for some picture frames. I completed the finish with rubbing out Liberon paste wax. The result was great so I’m thinking of using the same approach for a dresser that I’m building for my wife. However, she wants a more satin look. The paste wax contributes some to the gloss finish but even without the wax the shellac looks glossy. I like the depth that shellac adds to a finish so is there an appropriate top coat for shellac that is more protective and provides a satin look.
– Lyptus
Replies
Lyptus,
You can rub out shellac to whatever sheen you wish almost immediately after it is dry. I usually give it 3 or 4 days to be on the safe side, but that is still a far cry from the month or so you should wait before rubbing out varnish.
I would think that shellac would be plenty durable for an adults dresser.
Rob
Apply the wax with 0000 steel wool and you should get the satin finish you want.
We get to soon oldt und to late schmart
I just finished a project where I wanted it toned down to a satin. I tested various grades of Liberon (good quality steel wool) and several grades of those synthetic rubbing pads. You've got to find the right one based on your tastes.
Anyway, I rub like four ways, like you were cutting slices of a pie. Perpendicular to the grain, then 45 degrees angled left, then 45 degrees angled right, then finally, with the grain. Gives me a pretty uniform pattern. Then, I wax.
Rubbing out with Abralon pads on a random-orbital sander will give you very fine control over the sheen. You can go from 500 grit (very matte) to 4000 grit (near-glossy).
-Steve
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