Thread: Recent Restoration projects suggestions

Hi all! I am new to SRP and straight razor restorations.
This is some of my work that I've done recently.
I was wondering if you guys could give me some suggestions on applying shellac, I somehow cannot apply them very evenly.
I usually apply a thin layer of shellac with paper towel and let it dry for around 15 to 20 mins, steel wool it then repeat for around 5 times.

Open to suggestions!

Welcome aboard,,,,,,,

Give it a little time & I'm sure members will have lots of advice for you.

Welcome.
For wood...Tru Oil is the best.
.
And a bit of positive criticism...!!
Get your scales thinner, and the width narrower.
It all comes with time and practice.
All of us that made scales the first few times, made them like yours. But the shape...I like.

I'm hoping when you say shellac, you are actually talking about real shellac and not just using it as a generic term for a clear coating. With shellac it is all about the alcohol and rubbing the layers on. It is not an easy technique to describe. I would think you will be able to find some very good youtube videos. Try searching under French Polish.

I use shellac, but I've never heard of using alcohol, or rubbing it in. It says on the jar, do not dilute. I'll have to look that up, now you have me worried I've been using it wrong!

If it is premixed and not flakes you should figure out what the cut is. 1 pound of flakes per gallon is a pretty common cut, some like it less, at down to 1/2 pound per gallon. It has been a long time since I have discussed it with anyone and I forget all of the correct terms on how it is done. On this one I would say that youtube is your friend.

I use a 2 lb cut and apply it with a rubber glove. I just cut off the fingers and wear them one at a time. Apply spit coats (really thin), then steel wool.

If your making your own cut try pure light button lac. It dries a bit softer and is easier to buff out.

I've considered using shellac as well and did even try the "pre-mixed" stuff once on scales. I've been wanting to do it again but with mixing my own. It's a cool finish that's been around forever and has many uses. I do believe that it was even used, or is still used, in coating candy. If I'm remembering correctly a "French Polish" provides a beautiful finish and is just one way of using shellac, traditionally on furniture and a little hard to do. But you could also go the route of a less shiny, warm glow look too and be alright. I like the idea of an old type of finish being used for old razors.

Button Lac, steel wooled, then buffed with minwax..

Yep, that has a warm, touchable look and feel to it that's very appealing. Nice razor!