French Wax Refinishing Process

Prepare the Surface

• Surface preparation for the application of the French wax technique includes sanding the wood surface with a fine-grit sandpaper. Use between 280 and 400 grit sandpaper to level the surface as much as possible but avoid removing all of the existing finish. The chemicals of the shellac will slightly melt the existing finish, combining the two into one finish. The goal is to smooth out any cracks or chips in the surface.

Mix the Shellac

• The shellac used for the finish should be mixed in a paint cup using 10 percent dry shellac flakes, 89 percent denatured alcohol, and 1 percent sandarac, a natural gum found in woodworking retailers. The mixture needs to be stirred until the dry shellac flakes have dissolved in the alcohol.

Apply the Finish

• The finish should be applied to the surface using a pad of lint-free cotton cloth. It is crucial to keep lint off the surface, as it embeds itself in the finish. Apply one coat, and then allow it to dry for a few minutes. As the second coat is applied, apply a drop or two of natural oil such as linseed or walnut oil. This acts to lubricate the surface as you wipe the finish, filling any cracks or voids in the finish. Avoid using too much oil, though, as it will cause the finish to become gummy when warm.

Surface Finishing

• Allow the finish to dry for at least one week, then apply a small amount of denatured alcohol to a clean cotton pad along with a drop of oil. This is called "spiriting off" the finish. Rub the finish to smooth out any remaining high spots. The next step is to do away with the cotton pad. Use the palm of your hand to vigorously rub the surface and finish the polishing operation. Allow the surface to dry for another week prior to doing any additional work to the piece.