Too cold for shellac?

[Tex B]

Temps here in Sydney have been lows of 5-7, highs of 10-15. I was thinking about brushing on a coat of shellac after work, when it's probably 8-10 in the workshop.

Should I wait for warmer weather?

Thanks,

Tex

[echnidna]

use a heater

[Groggy]

but not an open flame one - boom, boom :oo:

[echnidna]

I've used the small fan heaters though an infra red heat globe is great

[Groggy]

I've used the small fan heaters though an infra red heat globe is greatI don't really know how dangerous it would be (don't want to find out either), I just pictured one of those overhead gas grill type things getting some fumes to play with. A heat globe sounds like a very practical solution.

[Tex B]

Any idea how warm I need to get the place, or for how long? Or what happens if it's too cold?

Did a bit of searching online, but couldn't find anything other than don't use it if it's too cold.

Thanks,

Tex

[Groggy]

Back to the original question, one of the benefits of shellac is it can be applied in 4 deg C or even lower (http://www.zinsser.com/product_detail.asp?ProductId=31)

Another good link here (http://www.naturalhandyman.com/iip/author/zinsser/shellac.html)

[Tex B]

Thanks Grog. Great links.

Guess I'll put on a jumper .... :cold:


Tex

[Woodwould]

Humidity is the enemy of shellac, not temperature. Shellac actually goes on really well in cold dry weather, but those cold wet days can cause the shellac to 'bloom'. Bloom isn't the death nell for a finish though, local heat and/or waiting until the ambient temperature rises usually disperses the moisture in the polish. If not, then a swipe with some alcohol will get rid of it.