Can a quality finish be done in 3 coats or less

[Arron]

Imagine you have just been asked to do a job - no real money in it but you decide its worth doing from a strategic perspective. Looking at it, there really isnt much you can shortcut except perhaps the finishing - which means that whatever you use is going to have to be 3 coats or less. Spraying is not possible. So, what would you use if you were in this situation ? Is there anything out there that will yield a quality finish in three coats or less ?

Further info - it doesnt have to be a perfect piano finish - but it cant look like a typical DIY varnish job either. Its probably better if the grain shows through a bit. Preferably mid to high gloss. Timber is blackwood, qld maple and red cedar.

cheers
Arron

[Harry72]

Some of Ubeauts hard shellac will do the trick, other than that polyU/waterbased clear is about the only other choice for that fewer coats.

[Arron]

Some of Ubeauts hard shellac will do the trick, other than that polyU/waterbased clear is about the only other choice for that fewer coats.

OK, first coat hard shellac and talc for filler. Then rub back. Then two more coats. Then rubbed with shellawax.
Am I on the right track?

cheers
Arron

[Harry72]

Shellawax is for woodturning and is a finish itself not a cutting polish. After your second coat a cut/polish will give you a nice luster, you must wait for the shellac to fully cure first...