Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500519
06/24/03
Modern Shellac Finish
Care: Much old furniture may have a shellac finish,
probably refinished at home. Keep moisture away from it;
water or a damp environment, as in humidity, makes
shellac sticky. Test in an inconspicuous spot with
denatured alcohol; shellac will dissolve quickly.
Regular Cleaning: Vacuum and/or dust with a soft, dry
cloth; do not use oiled or treated cloth.
Special Cleaning: Protect finish with a liquid furniture
wax or cream polish that gives the desired gloss.
If dirty, clean with either a cleaning/polishing wax for
furniture. Following the directions on the label for
cleaning; or use a solution of equal parts of boiled
linseed oil and mineral spirits. Moisten a soft cloth
with cleaner and rub briskly, changing cloth when soiled.
If surface is very dirty, process may have to be
repeated. Use 3/0 or 4/0 steel wool to remove stubborn
soil and smooth roughened places. If finish is in poor
condition, use denatured alcohol to remove, and refinish
with modern finish.
CAUTION: When using mineral spirits or other
solvents, follow all label directions and warnings. They
are flammable, so don't use near flame or spark or pilot
light, and don`t smoke.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and
dispose of them afterward or wash with hot suds and let
them air dry thoroughly before storing. Work in well-
ventilated room and avoid breathing fumes. Air-dry cloths
used to evaporate solvent before disposing.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from Georgia
Extension bulletin, How to Care for Your Furnishings.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
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Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .