How Is French Polishing Useful For Classic Furniture Restoration?

You have probably heard or read about the term “French polishing” for restoring worn-out furniture pieces. But do you have any idea about it? What is it? 

Well, the basic concept is that French polishing is used to sway away the dull, lacklustre, or damaged look of wooden furniture. French polish isn’t about “what,” it is about “how.”French polishing is a method of application. It isn’t a product. It is a process of applying different types of shellac-resin finishes. 
The method is increasingly becoming rare to this day. So, when you think of French polishing in Hobart, make sure to partner with a learned furniture restorer. Since this is a traditional method, it’s wise to find a specialist who has been doing this for years. 

A Detailed Concept of French Polishing

The result of French polishing is one of the most lovable finishes for wooden furniture. It is a flawless technique that gives so many advantages over other finishing methods. The application involves applying different types of super-thin layers of shellac-resin mixture. The thin layers of resin cause the solvent to evaporate quickly. You can notice depth in the finishes as the layers build. 

A professional restorer in Hobart who provides French polishing services calls this appearance “chatoyance.” This is a common term used by gem experts when they describe the shine of stones. After French polishing, the wood grain starts to appear in 3D. The impression changes when you look from different angles. 

French polishing is a non-toxic option for wooden furnishings. It is relatively safe because it only employs resins, shellac flakes and denatured or grain alcohol. This means the application can be done indoors. A master French polisher can uniquely restore the damaged area without removing the existing finish. 

Materials used in French Polishing

We are already aware that the technique employs a mixture of shellac resin. However, the composition of the mixture varies across different levels of application. The foundation layer will always be shellac. Hundreds or even thousands of layers are applied on top of it. These layers are a mixture of shellac flakes and grain alcohol with a very small amount of: 

1. 1. Benzoin

2. 2. Sanarac

3. 3. Gum mastic

4. 4. Paraloid B-72

The type of mixture depends on the polishing stage (initial, mid and final layers).

This is why French polishing is special and helps preserve any antique furniture. It gives the well-deserved respect for the journey of traditional wooden furnishings. French polishing helps in increasing the durability and resistance of wooden furniture. The application is capable enough of bringing out the natural aesthetic of wood grains. 

Why Resins? Isn’t Shellac Enough?

Shellac is the basic layer in French polishing. Therefore, it will not ensure optimum protection without resins. The resin additives help to bring depth to the finish. They add clarity and increase the durability. A furniture piece with only an application of shellac will lose its appearance with the occurrence of accidental spills. The application of alcohol helps to dissolve shellac with the wooden grains. 

The resin serves as a protective layer over the shellac and does not harm the piece, even with accidental spills. An expert French polisher can ensure that the finish lasts and the wood remains protected for longer. 

Is a Shellac-resin Base Better than Modern Lacquers?

There’s no winning with a final conclusion. The application depends on the type of furniture and the owner's desired goal. French polishing is a better option for: 

1. 1. Wooden musical instruments like the violin, guitar, cello and others

2. 2. The piece of furniture was originally finished with French polish

3. 3. Wooden furniture pieces made from walnut, mahogany or other finishes that respond well to French polishing. 

French polishing is not an option when:

The wooden piece is made of oak or a similar wood with large pores. 

The wooden piece is just an ordinary one intended for general household purposes.

Finishing Off

Wood is inherently warm and classic. It is one of the traditional favoured materials for architectural and furniture elements. Wood surfaces are prone to damage, wear or fading. So, restore the finishes with this refined art of French polishing in Hobart. 

Adams Furniture offers a meticulous transformation that helps your antique pieces to breathe. Our master restorers are experienced in various tried-and-tested techniques and specialised products for French polishing. Stay tuned to our blog page for more helpful insights. You can also reach out to our experts today for a no-obligation quote on your adorable pieces. Thanks!