1. Shellac Flakes
Shellac is the core ingredient of French polishing.
Why shellac is essential:
- Provides the signature warm glow
- Builds a deep, glass-like finish
- Dries quickly for multi-layer application
- Can be repaired easily
Shellac flakes come in various shades — blonde, garnet, ruby, and more — allowing you to match the timber's natural tone.
2. Methylated Spirits (Denatured Alcohol)
Shellac must be dissolved in alcohol to turn it into a liquid polish.
Why it's needed:
- Acts as a solvent for shellac flakes
- Helps the polish dry quickly
- Allows thin, even coats
- Used in the "spiriting off" stage to refine the finish
Using high-quality alcohol ensures a clearer, smoother final result.
3. Polishing Pad (Rubber or Fad)
The rubber is the hand-held pad used to apply the shellac.
What it consists of:
- A soft cotton or wool core
- Wrapped in lint-free cotton or linen
Purpose:
- Holds the polish
- Releases shellac evenly
- Allows smooth, controlled motion
This simple tool is at the heart of the entire process.
4. Fine Sandpaper
Good preparation makes all the difference.
Useful grits:
- 180
- 240
- 320
- 400 or higher
Used for:
- Smoothing the timber
- Removing old finishes
- Leveling imperfections
- Preparing the surface for grain filling
Proper sanding helps achieve that flawless, mirror-like shine.
5. Pumice Powder (for Grain Filling)
French polishing often includes pore filling, especially for open-grain woods like mahogany and walnut.
Why pumice is used:
- Fills natural pores
- Creates a level surface
- Helps shellac build evenly
- Enhances clarity and smoothness
Pumice is worked into the grain using the polishing pad and shellac.
6. Finishing Oil
A few drops of oil help the pad glide smoothly as shellac is applied.
Common oils:
- Olive oil
- Mineral oil
- Walnut oil
Why it's needed:
- Reduces friction
- Prevents pad sticking
- Helps avoid swirl marks or tearing
Only a very small amount is used — too much will affect the shine.
7. Clean Cotton Cloths
These are used for:
- Wiping surfaces
- Making polishing pads
- Applying alcohol for spiriting off
Cloths must be lint-free to prevent debris from getting into the finish.
8. A Dust-Free Workspace
Because French polishing builds a delicate, glossy surface, even tiny dust particles can leave imperfections.
A good workspace includes:
- Minimal airflow
- Clean surfaces
- Controlled environment
- Stable temperature
A clean area is just as important as the tools themselves.
9. Optional: Wax Polish
After curing, some restorers finish with a thin layer of beeswax or carnauba wax.
Benefits:
- Adds extra sheen
- Protects the shellac
- Enhances smoothness
Not required, but a popular final touch.
Summary: What You Need for French Polishing
To perform French polishing properly, you need:
- Shellac flakes
- Methylated spirits
- Polishing pad (rubber)
- Fine sandpaper
- Pumice powder
- Finishing oil
- Clean cotton cloths
- A dust-free workspace
- Optional: wax for final protection
Although the materials are simple, mastering the technique takes practice, patience, and an understanding of wood behaviour.