Shellac

Shellac is an animal resin which is soluble in alcohol, and has multiple uses, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as wood finishing. Once dissolved, it can be applied directly to bare or stained wood. Shellac is available in tones from clear blonde to dark amber.

Shellacs can be applied on furniture, cabinets, woodwork, toys and food contact surfaces in order to enhance the depth and protect both domestic and exotic woods. It is also very popular for string instruments and piano finishes.

Shellacs are widely used for antique furniture restoration. They have several properties which makes them a coveted product for wood finishing, as it can be used as a varnish, sealer, pre-stain conditioner, and also to eliminate unpleasant odors.

Shellacs will adhere to almost any surface and offers a nice choice of colors. Shellac finishes are easily applied by brush, rubbing pad (french polishing), and spray gun. Shellacs dry quickly and their color will change very little over the years. They are strong, durable, and are easy to sand and polish.

Shellacs may be available in either waxed or dewaxed form. Waxed shellacs are the result of a minimal refining process, and are less bright than dewaxed shellacs, which have much brighter sheen, making it perfect to create primer coats to stabilize wood grain before staining.