French Polishing for the complete novice.

[Simplicity]

French polishing tool handles for the complete novice.

Some of you may be aware that there is a plane challenge running on the forum,
And i am happily one of the competitors.


I have started to work on some of the handle front knob being Forest Red Gum.

I would like to try my hand at some traditional french polishing on the handles.

So ,a few questions to start with.

What grit should I stop sanding with,? I was thinking around the 800 mark,but that’s just a guess happy to go beyond that.

Should I mix my own shellac ? or use something from our leaders store( Neil U Beaut) ?

What is the best way to apply the shellac on small irregular shaped parts, ? ie Plane Handles.

Will I need to fill the grain?

Also I have read Neil excellent book on polishing, but that was a awhile ago.

Cheers Matt.

[Picko]

Oh, you're taking it to the next level now Matt. I can't help you, (or won't ), but I'm sure Neil will be along soon to spoil the fun.
There's something regal looking about that K-nob, I think some gold leaf would be appropriate.

[Simplicity]

Oh, you're taking it to the next level now Matt. I can't help you, (or won't ), but I'm sure Neil will be along soon to spoil the fun.
There's something regal looking about that K-nob, I think some gold leaf would be appropriate.

Not sure about next level, yet! Picko.
But something I’ve been wanting too do for ages.

Now,gold leaf there’s an idea.