Natural Shellac

Natural Shellac is an Organic, Non-Toxic, Reversible, and Storable Finish.
Natural Shellac has been found on American furniture as early as the mid-1800s and even earlier on French, Italian, and English furniture.
Orange flake shellac is the most commonly used. It has a natural amber color.

How to Prepare Shellac

Get two 1-quart size containers; purchase Denatured Alcohol from any hardware store.
Put shellac flakes in one container 1 ¾ full
Fill a container with alcohol until the liquid is 1 inch above the shellac flakes.
Most shellac will dissolve in 3 to 5 hours (cover container). Will dissolve faster in the sun or near the radiator
Stir contents a few times during this time period.
Strain shellac with a piece of t-shirt material or cheesecloth into the other empty container.
Note: do not throw away what is left in the original container, simply add a little alcohol and it will dissolve

Natural Shellac Application

1. Now you have base shellac. Add equal amount by volume of alcohol to strained shellac. Now it is ready to use.
2. With a 3’’ brush apply 4 THIN COATS, wait ½ hour between applications.
3. Start in middle and brush out to edges. This method lessens chances to have drips
4. If you get lint or dust on wet surface, let it dry for an hour, then give area a light sanding with 320 Trimite Freecut sand paper, then apply another coat.
5. When complete wax with Regency Wax. Product found on Products Page
Professionals: Please e-mail or call for Special Orders of amounts over 5 pounds and for Red Garnet Flake Shellac, Seed Lac, Button Shellac, and Anglo Blonde Flake Shellac.
Orange Flake Shellac sold here 1 pound (lb.) and 1/2 pound (lb.) sizes.

Watch a How-To Finishing Video