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  1. #1
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    Mar 2006
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    Default French Polishing Problems - streaks in finish

    I have been trying to use a traditional French polish to finish my first piece. I am however having problems getting a uniform appearance to my finish. From above at 90º you have a uniform finish. However tilting in the light reveals these streaks caused by the edge of the mop/tampon.

    The finish is glass like to the touch and I have buffed with 2000 wet and dry. However the streaks can bee seen.

    I am using ubeaut shellac blended according to instruction (I think a 2 pound cut).

    What can I do stop this effect?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Bloomingdale, IL
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    60
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    13

    Default

    Is your last application with the pad just alchohol?

  3. #3
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    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by JeffG. View Post
    Is your last application with the pad just alcohol?
    Do you mean spiriting off?

    No it is not I have not gotten that far. Will spiriting off get rid of the streaks?

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Bloomingdale, IL
    Age
    60
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    13

    Default

    I think we may go about it a little differently, as I don't hit 2000 grit until the final polishing. But that last stage, the 'spiriting off' and buffing may solve the problem. The other thing is to keep the room warm during the application.

    Honestly I have never had great luck with french polish, shellac and me and corners do not seem to mix well

  5. #5
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    Mar 2007
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    Munruben, Qld
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    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by JeffG. View Post
    Honestly I have never had great luck with french polish, shellac and me and corners do not seem to mix well
    Me either but I am sure Neil will have the answer if he reads this thread.
    Reality is no background music.
    Cheers John

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Jul 2004
    Location
    Adelaide Hills
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    66
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    Default

    Neil is the expert in here but here are some thoughts from a beginner.

    I stiff off with meths/shellac on the pad after every few body sessions. This should get rid of most of the streaks and uneveness. Every 5 body sessions I spirit off with meths only..this also lowers high spots and also removes lubricating oil (I use olive oil). If the surface is really uneven then I do a light rub with oil lubricated 1200 grit W and D...just enough to lower high spots.

    2lb cut is good for body sessions but for final glaze coats I cut the shellac back to 1lb cut or sometimes less.
    Whatever note you blow youre never more than a semitone away from the correct one....(Miles Davis)

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Mar 2006
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    Default

    kiwigeo - I will give it a try - thank you.

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