Best Brush for Shellac

Q:

I’d like to start using shellac to finish the furniture I build. What type of brush is best and how should I care for it?

Graham Parker, Portland, OR

A:

If I had to choose just one brush, it would be a mop brush. The dome-shaped bristles make it great for small areas like legs and drawer fronts; and because mop brushes hold lots of finish, they also work great for larger surfaces. Less-expensive ones are fine for general work, but for laying down fine topcoats on small parts or molding, I’d use a mop brush with bristles made from squirrel or goat hair.

As versatile as mop brushes are, it is also very helpful to have a flat brush for laying down smooth, thin topcoats on large surfaces such as tabletops. I recommend a brush with synthetic bristles made from Taklon. However, they don’t hold much finish.

As for cleaning brushes, there’s not much to it. Just dip the brush in denatured alcohol, reshape the bristles, and set the brush aside to dry. Before you use it the next time, soak it in denatured alcohol for about 10 minutes to soften and dissolve any shellac on the bristles.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Veritas Micro-Adjust Wheel Marking Gauge

The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.

Buy at Lee Valley

Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

Buy at Amazon

Zissner Seal Coat

Great as a sanding sealer, and as a final finish.

Buy at Amazon