1. General Timeframe
On average, French polishing takes:
2–5 days for small items
(e.g., bedside tables, dining chairs, small cabinets)
1–2 weeks for large furniture
(e.g., dining tables, antique wardrobes, writing desks)
2–3 weeks for pianos or complex, carved pieces
(grand pianos, intricate antiques, multi-panel furniture)
This timeline includes preparation, pore filling, polishing sessions, drying times, and final finishing.
2. Why French Polishing Takes Time
French polishing is not a single coat — it's a layering process.
Here's what makes it time-intensive:
- Multiple coats: Often 20–30+ ultra-thin layers
- Drying time: Shellac dries fast, but layers must be built carefully
- Grain filling: Pumice and shellac are used to create a smooth base
- Spiriting off: Refining the finish requires precision and patience
- Handwork: Every stroke is done manually with a polishing pad
The process simply cannot be rushed without affecting the final shine and clarity.
3. Influence of Wood Type
Different woods take different times.
Open-grain woods (slower):
- Mahogany
- Walnut
- Oak
These require more pore-filling, adding extra hours or days.
Tight-grain woods (faster):
- Maple
- Cherry
- Birch
These need fewer preparation steps.
4. Condition of the Furniture
The starting condition significantly affects the polishing time.
Takes longer if:
- The old finish must be stripped
- The wood is damaged or uneven
- Deep scratches need repairing
- Veneer needs stabilising
- Water or sun damage must be corrected
Faster if:
- The surface is clean and ready
- Only refinishing is required, not restoration
Most antique pieces require detailed restoration before polishing even begins.
5. Size and Complexity of the Piece
A simple flat tabletop will polish much faster than:
- Carved legs
- Turned components
- Raised panels
- Ornamental details
- Large surfaces (e.g., grand pianos)
More surface area = more layers = more working time.
6. Drying and Curing Time
French polish dries quickly, but curing takes longer.
Drying:
Shellac dries within minutes between coats.
Curing:
The finish continues to harden over 7–14 days.
Many professionals recommend avoiding heavy use or placing objects on the surface during this curing period.
7. Can French Polishing Be Done Faster?
Experienced polishers can work efficiently, but the process still requires:
- Repeated sessions
- Correct timing
- Layer building
- Rest periods
Trying to shorten the process usually leads to:
- Stickiness
- Cloudy finish
- Streak marks
- Uneven gloss
So while it can be done efficiently, it cannot be rushed without compromising quality.
Summary: How Long Does French Polishing Take?
French polishing typically takes:
- 2–5 days for small pieces
- 1–2 weeks for medium to large furniture
- 2–3 weeks for pianos and high-value antiques
The timeline depends on preparation, wood type, condition, and detail. The result, however, is a luxurious, long-lasting, mirror-like finish that makes the time investment completely worthwhile.