Looking for some advice on how to finish 2 cherry pieces that I'm making for a customer. Been doing tons and tons of reading and probably just confusing myself more in the process than learning.
I've decided that I want to use some shellac as a sealer, but also to help with the natural chatanoyance (sp?) that it brings to cherry. I think I want to use one or two layers of dewaxed garnet shellac at a 1lb cut. Then followed up by some super blonde dewaxed shellac to help build layers and warm up the colors. But on top of that I need a super tough finish that will hold up to a daycare setting, but let the wood remain beautiful looking and not like plastic. Is this possible to have those two qualities?
Through my reading I think I've come down to using P&L 38, or Behlen Rockhard. It seems like both are hard to find, but I haven't looked too hard yet.
I have minimal experience with French Polishing technique. My son's bedroom furniture was finished with a 1:1:1 of Cabot Spar varnish, mineral spirits, and BLO. Turned out pristine, IMO. I didn't know at that point about using shellac as a sealer, so it took about 7-8 coats to build a layer, but it was worth it.
Will my shellac help me finish with less coats of varnish this time? Will either of these varnishes suit my needs? I really want to avoid wiping on some cheap poly. Also, on the blonde shellac, should I cut it at 1lb or 2lb since it's going over a layer or two of the garnet at 1lb.? I've never used shellac.
Thanks for all the help and time. And, yes, I plan on using lots of scrap pieces first!!!