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Shellac Finishing
The Timeless Art of Furniture Refinishing
At ECR Antique Conservation and Restoration Inc., we are experts in Shellac Finishing, a traditional method that enhances and preserves the natural beauty of antique and vintage furniture. Known for its warm, rich tone and protective qualities, shellac furniture finish is one of the most sought-after finishing techniques for restoring and maintaining wooden antiques.
furniture finish
Dewaxed Shellac Flakes
The Beauty of Shellac
Shellac has been a favorite finish for fine furniture for centuries. It provides a stunning, glossy sheen while preserving the wood’s character. A shellac furniture finish gives your piece a deep, lustrous appearance that highlights the natural grain of the wood, making it appear even more beautiful and refined. At ECR Antique Conservation and Restoration Inc., we use the finest quality dewaxed shellac flakes to create a flawless finish that offers protection and durability.
Unlike other finishes that may obscure the wood’s surface, shellac enhances the wood’s natural color and texture, making it ideal for antiques and vintage furniture. The finish is also highly versatile, allowing for various levels of sheen, from a soft satin to a brilliant gloss, depending on the desired effect.
Why Choose Shellac Finishing?
There are many reasons why shellac finishing is the preferred choice for high-quality furniture restoration:
- Rich Appearance: The natural amber or golden hues of shellac bring out the warmth of the wood, offering a luxurious and vintage look that is hard to replicate with other finishes.
- Protective Qualities: Shellac provides a durable protective coat that shields the wood from moisture, dirt, and scratches while still allowing it to breathe.
- Easy to Repair: If the finish becomes damaged over time, shellac can be easily repaired or refinished without stripping the entire piece, making it perfect for long-term preservation.
- Non-Toxic: Made from natural resins secreted by the lac bug, shellac is an eco-friendly, non-toxic option for those looking to restore or maintain their furniture without using harsh chemicals.
Why choose ECR Antiques?
We are experts in the traditional art of hand-rubbed shellac finishing including French, English and American polishing methods.
Our Shellac Finishing Process
At ECR Antique Conservation and Restoration Inc., we take great care in applying shellac to your pieces. We begin by carefully preparing the wood surface, ensuring that it is free from dirt, oils, or previous finishes. Once the surface is prepped, we apply the dewaxed shellac flakes in thin, even layers, building up the finish until the desired depth and sheen are achieved.
The use of dewaxed shellac flakes ensures that the finish is crystal clear and free from the cloudiness that can sometimes occur with non-dewaxed alternatives. This high-quality shellac is preferred for fine furniture restoration because it creates a more durable and beautiful finish.
The Versatility of Shellac Finishing
Not only does shellac work beautifully on antique furniture, but it can also be used for a wide variety of finishes on different wood types, from polished antique furniture to modern reproduction pieces. Whether you’re looking for a classic glossy finish for a vintage writing desk or a satin sheen for an antique chair restoration, shellac finishing provides the flexibility and elegance you need to complement any piece.