Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tom T on September 24, 2020 at 1:28pm

French polish and shellac is my all time favorite finish. A one pound cut of shellac smooths and fills without being thick. It makes a very professional finish. Do you use 0000 pumice in your polishing?

Your two examples are truly beautiful. Nice stuff!

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Taffy Evans on September 24, 2020 at 5:42pm

Hi Tom, I learnt French Polishing years ago, in my trade as an apprentice, and I have not done it again for fifty years, until this year.
So its a relearning curve. I have the pumice on order so have not used it yet. Its a very time consuming process but relaxing. Its certainly healthier than spraying Nitro cellulose lacquer, but not as damage resistant. But then its easier to repair in the event of any damage.

If I get the standard/quality up to where I once was I might continue to finish my instruments this way. Its better for sound quality.
Cheers Taff

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Tom T on September 24, 2020 at 11:47pm

I think you hit the key appeal of French polish...it's relaxing. It does take time to build up the thickness, but it is calm time and is often just a nice escape for a while. I think the pumice will to the micro-grain filling and bring your finish up to the quality and luster you remember.

Thanks for the photos.

• ▶ Reply