262 – A Quick & Dirty 2lb Cut of Shellac

*Note* – This is a clip from a 2008 video. If you notice I look approximately 25{e5db15d02c984ae3069909e2f0b0fd04a63d07514f3185dfbb3c24698957a124} sexier, that would be why. If you ever research mixing shellac, you were probably overwhelmed with information about precise measurements, including weights and volumes. More fun ensues when you want to learn how to go from one dilution to another. If you aren’t familiar with shellac dilutions, here’s the quick primer. A certain amount of shellac flakes are dissolved in alcohol to achieve a particular dilution known as a “pound cut” (abbreviated lb cut). The most common cuts you’ll come across are 3 lb, 2 lb and 1 lb. Most pre-mixed shellac is sold as a 3 lb cut and is usually diluted …

Dry Powdered Pigments for Restoration Work

I have received several requests for the dry powdered pigments I use and having mentioned them in my forth coming book, I decided to offer them for sale as a set. Black Iron Oxide, Red Iron Oxide, Yellow Ocher, Burnt Umber, & Zinc White. These are the traditional pigments from the nineteenth century and earlier, zinc oxide is substituted for white lead, as some people won’t allow the sale of lead for some reason. All natural earth pigments ground 900 fine, they are non-fugative and will not fade.  They are compatable with any medium: linseed oil and turpentine, shellac or spirit based varnish, oil based varnish [to make enamel], and water based finishes such as gum arabic or for …