Re: French Polish

Nov 15, 2008 1 Replies


I have a table, about 1940's I reckon, which is french-polished.


> Trouble is, the cat has been sick over it,
> and this removed the finish in that area, took some of the polish
> off. What is the usual method of removing french polish down to the
> wood - lots of meths., or use a cabinet scraper? I shall probably
> stain the top when cleaned down, and use marine varnish to re-finish.
> Hopefully, I can match the un-damaged finish on the legs. Any advice
> much appreciated, thank you.
>

I use a place in Edinburgh for all this kind of thing, and any attempt I've had to make a nice job of French Polish has not turned out well. That's why I leave it to the professionals.


(X-posted and all follow ups set to )


Mainly not bothering. The whole point about shellac finishes is that you don't need to - if they're applied within living memory, the old finish will re-dissolve slightly and merge with the new.

If they're older than this ("crocodile" finishes especially), ammonia is a better stripper than meths.

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