Shellac Blonde/Garnet/Button

Purpose

Liberon Shellac is a natural resin used to make traditional French Polish finishes. Available in three varieties — Blonde (lightest, near-clear finish), Garnet (warm amber tone), and Button (rich golden-brown) — each imparts a different depth of colour to wood. Ideal for antique restoration, fine furniture production, and decorative woodwork.

Performance

• Used to make up French Polishes
• Suitable for antique restoration and furniture production
• Provides a traditional, high-gloss finish
• Easy to use — dissolve in methylated spirits to your desired consistency
• Each variety offers a different colour tone to suit your wood

Choosing the Right Shellac

• Blonde Shellac — Lightest colour; ideal for pale or light-coloured woods where you want minimal colour change
• Garnet Shellac — Warm amber tone; suits medium-toned woods like oak and walnut
• Button Shellac — Rich golden-brown; ideal for darker antique furniture and mahogany

How to Use

Preparation
Dissolve shellac flakes in methylated spirits (approximately 1 part shellac to 3–4 parts methylated spirits by weight) and allow to fully dissolve before use. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from wax or grease. Remove any old wax with Liberon Wax and Polish Remover.

Application
Apply using a traditional French polishing rubber (a pad of cotton wool wrapped in lint-free cloth), or with a soft brush for simpler finishes. Work in thin, even coats along the grain. Allow each coat to dry fully (15–30 minutes) before applying the next. Lightly cut back between coats with Liberon Steel Wool grade 0000 for a smoother finish. Build up multiple coats to achieve the desired depth and sheen.

Important
Always test on a spare surface or inconspicuous area first. Shellac is not water or heat resistant — it is best suited to decorative pieces and antiques rather than surfaces subject to heavy use.

Compatibility
Use with Liberon Steel Wool (grade 0000) between coats. Remove existing wax finishes first with Liberon Wax and Polish Remover. Can be overcoated with Liberon Black Bison Paste Wax for added protection and lustre.

Coverage

Varies depending on mixing ratio and number of coats applied.

Pack Size

Available in Blonde, Garnet, and Button varieties.