Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: DC on August 18, 2019, 08:16:38 pm

Title: Shellac
Post by: DC on August 18, 2019, 08:16:38 pm
Question for you guys that use shellac to seal staves. Do you know what pound cut shellac you use? I can't get the premixed any more so I have to use flake and I'm not sure how thick to make it.
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: Pat B on August 18, 2019, 09:32:16 pm
I use spray cans but I don't cut a lot of staves.
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: Hamish on August 18, 2019, 10:31:38 pm
I do it by eye. For sealing staves you want it pretty thick. Put some flakes in a container, like a jam jar and pour in some spirits. Come back
 when the flakes have dissolved, test the mix. If its too thick for your liking, add more spirits  . Too thin add more flakes .
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: Huntrick64 on August 20, 2019, 12:30:38 pm
I buy 3lb cut at lowes and then cut it in half with denatured alcohol.  So, 1.5lb cut for sealing staves.  Dried shellac flakes is premium shellac and expensive.  It use it when finishing, but not as a sealer.  I do two coats of the 1.5 lb cut drying completely between coats.  If it isn't old, it dries in about 10 minutes.
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: DC on August 20, 2019, 12:59:34 pm
I can't find premixed except in spray cans and it's really expensive so for the moment it's flakes.
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: Pat B on August 20, 2019, 03:39:55 pm
Premixed shellac has a short shelf life so don't buy too much at one time.
 I buy the cans because as little as I use the expense doesn't doesn't bother me. It is about $8 a can and a can last a long time for me. Being in a sealed can the shelf life is greatly extended.
Title: Re: Shellac
Post by: DC on August 20, 2019, 04:01:44 pm
I knew you used spray cans so I went looking. A 12 US ounce can(341ml) of Zissners cost close to $20 at home Depot.