French Polishers
From very minor scratches to full strip down and re-French polish. No job too big or too small.
Our French Polishers can repair the damaged surface on your furniture if it does not have a mass produced spray or lacquer finish. If your furniture was made before 1930 it is likely that it has been finished with a french polish process.
The main material used in a french polish finish is shellac. Shellac produces a beautiful finish on wood, however it melts at low temperatures and the surface can be damaged with hot cups. It is also softer than modern varnished finishes and is susceptible to staining from water and alcohol.
Shellac's softness however means that patch repairs to the finish are highly effective, and damage can often be repaired completely.
The french polishing technique involves applying successive layers of very fine shellac mixed with fine pumice. Each layer is allowed to dry fully before commencing with the next.
We also add oil to the mixture to prevent the underlying layer from lifting during the process. The final layer is levelled using grit oil and then buffed to completion using canuba paste wax.
Our french polishers are highly skilled and we are confident that you will be delighted with the results.