Decorating Guides
Is Shellac a Good Wood Finish?
In this article we weigh the pros and cons of shellac wood finish
Shellac is a premium wood finish that imparts richness and accentuates the natural beauty of wood grains. This finish is made from a resin secreted by the female lac bug on trees and is locally available in the form of dry flakes, which have to be dissolved in a solution of alcohol before application. Shellac has been used for decades and is highly recommended for finishing classic and modern pieces of wooden furniture and floors.
Here is all you need to know about shellac wood finish.
Here is all you need to know about shellac wood finish.
Shellac is used as a wood sealer and also for polishing wooden surfaces. It is available in the form of orange and white flakes.
- White shellac is used as a sealer where a concentrated solution of shellac and alcohol is used as a protective coating that penetrates into the wooden surface.
- Orange shellac gives an amber colour to the wood and is primarily used for polishing the wood.
- Antique or classic pieces of furniture are finished with French polish. It is a glossy, mirror-like finish that is achieved by applying several layers of liquid shellac in many thin coats.
Pros:
- Shellac is a natural material, therefore eco-friendly.
- It is non-toxic in nature and does not produce harmful fumes upon application.
- Shellac is quick drying and easy to work with.
- It provides a hard finish that looks natural and not as if the wood has been coated with plastic.
- Shellac is highly resistant to UV rays and does not turn yellowish or darken with age.
- Shellac can be used under most top coats, such as varnish, lacquer or polyurethane.
- The biggest advantage of this finish is that it is easy to repair, because the old shellac can easily be scraped off with alcohol. The new coat of shellac can be applied on the existing finish – it dissolves and blends with the old layer of shellac to form a fresh coat.
Cons:
- Shellac is not very durable and is prone to damage.
- This finish is not heat-resistant. As a precaution, avoid placing hot pans or objects on it.
- Another drawback is that shellac is not water-resistant, hence unsuitable for areas such as kitchens or bathrooms. Humidity or water marks give the shellac finish a whitish tinge.
Application technique
Shellac can be applied with a rag, brush or sprayer and should be applied only in the direction of the wood grain. Three to four coats of shellac are required to finish the wooden furniture or flooring.
Enhance the Wooden Elements in Your Home With Wood Varnish
Tell us:
Have you used shellac finish for your wooden furniture? Share your tips in Comments below.
Shellac can be applied with a rag, brush or sprayer and should be applied only in the direction of the wood grain. Three to four coats of shellac are required to finish the wooden furniture or flooring.
- The first coat of shellac seals the wood and works as a fully protective coat. Make sure that shellac surface is sanded between the coats and each coat is allowed to dry thoroughly.
- The second coat gives more body to the shellac finish, so one can easily sand and level the polished surface.
- Apply the final coat and let it dry thoroughly. Repeat the process till you achieve the desired finish.
Enhance the Wooden Elements in Your Home With Wood Varnish
Tell us:
Have you used shellac finish for your wooden furniture? Share your tips in Comments below.
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