Finishing with Shellac | Paul Sellers

Paul shows his process for applying a shellac finish to small projects. He uses a first cut coat which raises tooth in the surface and works progressively around the project from the wet edge whenever possible. Next, he sands out this first coat before applying consecutive coats.
For a beginner friendly guide on finishes, see our sister site: commonwoodwork...
For more information on these topics, see paulsellers.com or woodworkingmas...

[@wadepatton2433]

I always enjoy watching the Master. Part of this enjoyment is that he is satisfied with his work and position and is NOT constantly trying to sell himself or any products. He doesn't beg for responses or subscribers. But mostly because he fully understands what he is doing (and most of the other ways of doing it) and is very good at articulating this to the student. Thanks again, to all involved in the making of these videos.

[@green_building]

Wade Patton, 100% true ! youre so deep 👍👍

[@TermiteUSA]

Could not agree more!

[@samueldavis5895]

He’s literally the best and for me there’s no debate.

[@wadepatton2433]

I don't know who "wp2433" is but I wrote the above and still feel that way. Just came to see latest reply and saw my name wasn't as it normally shows. I am Wade Patton.

[@tchevrier]

because of Paul, I tried using shellac for the first time. I first used a 2lb mix and a foam brush. It left a lot of streaks and brush marks because of how fast it dries. Much more sanding than when using poly. I tried thinning it to 1lb and it was a bit better. Then I tried using a soft rag to apply it and I found that was a better option than a brush. The final product is very nice though, and the speed at which it dries is obviously a big bonus.

[@jefferywarburton2116]

I have had bad luck with foam brushes. They soak up a lot of the finish and when you try get it back they produce bubbles and begin to come apart.

[@suezumberge]

Is shellac with water base and oil base. What is the best brush.

[@tchevrier]

@@suezumberge Shellac is alcohol based. I would use a rag to apply it, but I'm just learning.

[@DanTheManIOM]

Definitely a master class ! I found it very similar to the way my dad polished his shoes, - shoe polish and horsehair brush ! --- I know this is 7 years old, but that bench is just beautiful !

[@chadsmiley5485]

I haven't watched a Paul Sellers video in a while, it is one of the most informational and relaxing uses of time that I can find on the internet. Paul, you have layed the foundation of my fine woodworking, and I look forward to learning more

[@sebuteo]

As ever, I just love the slow unhurried pace of these videos. Also great for learning about shellac, obviously. And then there's Paul's work, which is, as ever, a work of art. Fab!

[@softdorothy]

The reason Paul is a master is that he understands subtlety. Too many new wood workers think contrasting walnut and maple is the way to make an eye-catching piece. Paul will show you the beauty and elegance in an understated wood craft. I admire the tone of the wood, the construction, the joinery. Subtley.

[@designertjp-utube]

Luv your Name. It's Catchy! Was amazing how Paul instantly immortalized his "John Hancock" signature around frames 9:18 . I know an FX Man who tried this on a movie prop slated for a theatrical release, and he got fired.

[@watermain48]

I believe that listening to Paul describe what he's doing provides as much as watching him. He'd be a great story teller.

[@leobaltz2057]

Paul, you are the most amazing teacher. I am subscribed to 100's of wood working channels and none can hold a candle to you. you detail every step taken and describe each with such precision to the point that we can imagine it in our heads. Amazing, simple amazing! Wish I could study under you!!

[@MrStatic101]

This was such a great help, I can build a lot of things but I'm clueless when it comes to finishing it. This video was a huge help. Thank you

[@Mac2474]

That stool reminds me so much of the first school project that the class had to make, the idea being that it would be used when going to watch Plymouth Argyll if playing at home - something the sit on at half-time and something to stand on during the match (we were only small then).

[@bighands69]

Back when Britain was still Britain and not a wannabe foreign state.

[@tomjeffries58]

I'm just finishing a #26 I just restored with shellac. I've been using shellac my entire life as a finish. I'm 70 years old and my father loved shellac as the finish for the trim and wood work in our house and I did a lot of 'shellacing' and I took a couple but I still learned a couple pointers from the expert after all these years.. Love it. Thank you, Mr. Sellers.

[@bighands69]

Shellac and various oils are fantastic natural finishes.

[@marcocavaco3150]

Such humbleness is the source (or maybe even the result, if I would go in the phylosophy way) of true mastery and skill. Amazing display of work Sir Paul. And regarding being thankfull, it's us that should say thank you!

[@lanceo1690]

This is really helpful. I am quite clueless when it comes to finishing projects. I would like to see similar videos for varnish or poly. Thank you!

[@Ed-lz4jv]

Best part of woodworking, applying clear finish

[@jamthejust]

As a novice, this is the only time I've seen someone use the steel wool and wax. Thank you so much. So many people say it but no one shows it.

[@markforrestsm]

Humble as always Paul. It's a pleasure watching you work and sharing your wealth of experience. Thank you!

[@SalmanFazelkhan]

You are not only a great woodworker. You are also a great teacher. Thank you

[@steveforrester2217]

I could try for a 100 years and not get that finish but I'm not going to give up yet. I guess some people simply have it. Lovely job Paul and thanks for sharing.

[@williamboggess]

Nice video. I wish more people would find the ease of using shellac. I've been using shellac finishes for years even on dining room tables. The ONLY problem with using shellac on a table is alcohol will cause a problem. I've recently used amber shellac on a pine floor. It builds character that you just can't reproduce any other way. The shelf life of premixed shellac is a problem. Mixing your own from flakes is easy and the flakes keep forever. You can also find flakes from absolutely clear to a dark garnet which provides may different color variations for finish. My latest project was an 18th century high boy made in cherry with a blonde shellac. After 6 months in the sun it is absolutely gorgeous.

[@michaelbiel5158]

William Boggess Josh

[@tonyennis3008]

My only experience with shellac is that my father used it on a project. The project turned orange and it took weeks to dry.

[@donaldhammond516]

Have been looking at many demos and this has made it an easy way to to tackle my item.

[@tiffanyjohnson3110]

Nobody makes painting interesting like Paul does.

[@AC_Lerok]

Tiffany Johnson Bob Ross does.

[@matthiasherzog5201]

Bob Ross is a one trick pony.

[@K8Nicole]

Matthias Herzog Perhaps, but what a wonderful trick it was. 😉

[@chrisgriffith1573]

@@matthiasherzog5201 Not so- he did a number when he was in the service.

[@littlebrookreader949]

@@matthiasherzog5201 But all his accidents are happy little ones!

[@kjbaran]

Nothing beats a source of sunlight in the shop. I have a spot I use to reflect off surfaces I’m working on. ☀️

[@awinbisa]

this is the part of the projects where i am usualy keen to finish, and always rush the finish. Always end up regretting not spending enough time on finishing. really useful tips.

[@djpenton779]

I just started using shellac for finishing. I really enjoy it.

[@thomasarussellsr]

Lovely bench/stool. I've never sat through a whole brush-on video before, but something about you makes it interesting.

[@jakeerussell7496]

He has that magic.

[@jesseterpstra5472]

Beautiful. I love how the grain and figure comes out after the finish goes on.

[@desredmon]

Paul, thank you for taking the time to explain each of the coats and the goals for each step. Very good video!

[@andyjota8906]

I used to work at Bromel paints many years ago and I made all the old henry flacks shellac polishes with all kninds of waxes and shellacs button shellacs amber flakes blondes etc. and we did all the briwax as well great days fond memories.

[@tropifiori]

I am terrible with a brush so I typically pad it on with a tampon.i have been amazed at the explosion in schellac prices.

[@Asmuk]

"because that`s who I am" . The Master.

[@brianknowles7130]

This could not have been shown any better and at a great time for me. Just received two bottles of Shellac for a Christmas present ..lol great timing ehmany thanks

[@naturelia]

i really enjoy watching this. this make me smile the entire video, because i know he realy like what he's doing.

[@Gavla..outdoors]

“I can’t see what I’m doing there....but it looks great” only Paul can apply sealant blind....incredible work as always!

[@rabbithutch6954]

The hake brush with goat's hair bristle is also available in the US on eBay.

[@albertifergan6506]

Wow, I started watching reluctantly and got hooked. Thank you sir for this wonderful video. I am working on a work much in my garage and I will follow your advice. I will use shellac bought from the store. I hope it is the same application.

[@Kneenibble]

I love the simple but elegant curves of this little bench. One can perceive the work of a master in its construction.

[@roylunn824]

great video I've been in the decorating trade all my life always wanted to work with wood Paul is as good as you get

[@createlovehappy]

I love shellac too. Amber, clear, dewaxed, dark... all of them are great. Let’s the wood speak. Well done.

[@valleywoodworkingllc7915]

Finish perfection could not be demonstrated better.

[@littlebrookreader949]

Beautiful! Very interesting. I really wish you had shown us the final buffed-out gleam after the horse hair brush. Your project is beautiful. Anyone would be pleased to have that in their home or household! Beautiful!

[@krypticz_adapt7505]

Loved this video Paul you are the best woodwork I've ever seen I really appreciate all the time and effort you put in to making these videos would love to see more like this using other finishes

[@krypticz_adapt7505]

Woodworker

[@hossenfeffer8383]

A wonderful video, thank you. I enjoy your laidback style, a reflection of the confidence of a master. I learned a lot.

[@grevinse]

I've always been a fan of shellac. It does so much more to the visual nature of a work piece than most other finishes. Not to mention it's way easier on brushes. Denatured alcohol is very mild compared to paint thinners and mineral spirits you have to use with oil based polyurethane finishes.

[@Prof-em1yt]

Paul,Your shellac video reminded me to start using it again. I have tended to use water based polyurethane or tung oil to finish shop projects. Thanks again for the artful demo and reminder.Bill

[@walkerorr341]

Bob Ross of woodworking!

[@95db97]

Shellac is a beautiful finish.

[@turnersparadise8368]

2015? That is one heck of a lead time! :-D

[@Xaviar002]

Tenspeed TheBikeHanger I see you on every comment wall pf like every video I watch lol

[@turnersparadise8368]

Ben Poliquin Great minds...

[@Xorobabel]

If you buy Zinsser shellac, you have to cut it before you will get the kind of finish Paul has in this video, from my own experience. Probably needs to be cut with denatured alcohol by about 1/2.

[@BicycleStuff]

Thanks. That's just for the first coat, right?

[@Xorobabel]

@@BicycleStuff Personally I keep it at least 1/2 cut and sometimes cut it even more on the final coat or two. The first coat for me is the thickest and may not be cut at all.

[@Offshoreorganbuilder]

Just watched this again: still the same impression: excellent!

[@Prosecute-fauci]

great video Paul. I like how you say "muh brush"

[@fisharmor]

I've only used shellac a few times, but I'm not sure why other finishes exist. Shelf life is the only real complaint, but if you get flake, and are willing to wait 24 hours after mixing, then the shelf life is forever.

[@bighands69]

By flakes and mix them up your self and if you are doing lots of work you will go through it.

[@mrlinsalata]

This demonstration is very loose and relaxed, yet filled with a subtle radiance of deep deep soulful passion! Elegant, understated beauty of a master in no hurry whatsoever. Thank you!!! Thank you for taking your time making LOVE to that stool! Just plain enjoyed watching this :):)

[@mikelong3268]

Master of his craft.

[@calvinbass1839]

Thank you for sharing. Have a blessed day.

[@oldmanfromscenetwentyfour8164]

I'm in a Zen state after watching this.

[@cathyt1656]

Did you sand between the second and third coats? I think I heard you say the second coat was thinner, then you said it was thicker... I'm thinking it is thicker as you didn't add alcohol to it, correct? And how long is 'fully cured"?

[@TheSunnyTrails]

Could we have an update on some of your shellac projects I’d love to see a before and after side by side :) happy new year

[@Kildayyan]

I find watching any of your videos extremely relaxing. I can't help compare watching you shellac this bench is similar to watching the late Bob Ross painting his beloved trees :) Happy New Year, Paul, from another satisfied subscriber!

[@dmwm771]

Thank you!

[@JohnWilliams-iw6oq]

Thank you Paul, I enjoyed watching you work and i love the finish which I'm about to try on a small project right now. All the best mate.

[@helljumper5586]

Will the colour in the methylated spirits not impact the finish of the shellac?

[@wags9777]

"Can't see what I'm doing but it looks perfect."

[@TravisTennies]

Nice! Can't wait to see you get past one million subscribers! Cheers!

[@8MWm3e4b]

Is it French, Polish or Finnish?😝

[@paulmaryon9088]

you silly sausage

[@SonOfPatriots]

Haha. Love it

[@ImpostorModanica]

Nice.

[@andyjota8906]

@@ImpostorModanica Actually he was from Varn where ever that is???

[@lorriebuxton2041]

Was thought this method in school in 1970 easy looks great and lasts

[@viggosimonsen]

Lovely demonstration. Thanks

[@thewoodworkingmetalhead2712]

Paul protecc, Paul attacc, But most importantly, He really like shelac

[@LukePighetti]

He protecc, He attacc, But most importantly, He shellac

[@76irodriguez]

What kind of brush is that and where can one get it or make it?

[@gotredeemed]

That's because it is nice! Thanks Paul.

[@stevetrubilla755]

One word, "excellent". Thank you.

[@joegregory5515]

Excellent information, great patina finish, thank you Paul...

[@mechaform]

Hello Paul, this project is 3-1/2 years old. Do you have a picture of what the colour looks like now?

[@markcarteresq]

Really like the colour of the wood before you apply Shellac. Can Shellac keep the colour or does it stain yellow as in your example.

[@BrewerShettles]

Back to scraping off all shellac with scotch brite and Ethanol 99%. Possibly, 4-5 coats of Amber shellac is too much. Nice amber glow. Small holes. Tears. Tried adding 99% Isopropyl alcohol and "Blending " shellac. Forgiving? Not so much. Red Oak without shellack looks nice. Letting it dry. Need to buy steel wool and isopropyl alcohol 99% for the next try. BTW, the disaster piece from before? It looks great!!! LONG DRYING TIMES. Adding slight coat w/rag. 15 Min. 2nd Slight coat. Letting shellac dry all day. Light Sand. Maybe it's NYC. Will watch the video again!!

[@MJFAN666]

Bob Ross of woodworking

[@joescarborough1]

I use shellac all the time, but what I want to know about is those (what appears to be) wooden pots you poured the finish into. I may have to turn a few of those for myself. Cheers, --Joe

[@joelchristensen9744]

I don't use shallac often because of the low shelf life but I do use lacquer and I love the beauty of both the finishes.

[@wadepatton2433]

Those serious about shellac buy the flakes and mix it up as needed. There's no shelf-life on the flakes or the alcohol unmixed.

[@GROFOOPERS]

This man was a tree reincarnated as a human being! He knows everything about wood!

[@joe3189]

That brush slide at the end is the mic drop of Paul Sellers

[@colonynaut1627]

Paul Sellers is the New Bob Ross.

[@drochon6672]

Glad I watched this. Thanks For the detail Paul.

[@haines96]

What do you mean by saying, "wet to wet"? The first time you were going from wet edge to wet edge, but the second time you say it, the edges were dry...

[@BobBlarneystone]

Do you ever do a French polish, with a pad and oil? By the way, in the US, I've found that Zinsser SealCoat is a very good pre-cut and stabilized shellac that compares well with shop-mixed flakes, and it has an extended shelf life.

[@Paul.Sellers]

You are right, it works well and I used it for years when I lived there.

[@lanceo1690]

Can you cut the Zinsser with denatured alcohol as you would with the Shellac Paul uses?

[@artheen4713]

Yes, you can (and should, because it's way to thick to do much with except brush paint). However, beware that there are two Zinsser shelllac types that look almost identical. One has a sealant in it, and is not very usable for French polish.

[@lanceo1690]

Thank you!

[@BobBlarneystone]

I've used SealCoat on several guitars using the French polish technique, and it's a wonderful finish - thin and gleaming, but I didn't polish to a high gloss.

[@simatbirch]

Unintentional ASMR. Great stuff.

[@marcclarke01]

Thanks!

[@adkpiper]

Thanks so much, Paul! Beautiful work. I'm curious about how you clean your brush. Do you just let the shellac dry on it and use the same brush for shellac next time? Flush it with denatured alcohol? Something else?

[@FriendM2010]

Great video, thanks for sharing ...

[@cougar1861]

Mr Sellers, it is a lovely piece. Can you recommend a specific brush bristle and/or brand and/or supplier? The application process can be much less satisfying than you have experienced when bristles are being continually deposited in the finish .... this from EXPENSIVE brushes! Thanks.

[@Tinydollhouse]

This man is soothing.

[@twelthstring]

The paints and varnishes I have purchased in recent years have proven not to be finger grease resistant. They become soft and sticky. How does shellac react to contact with skin?

[@morgangmilligan]

Great video thanks! I’m a better person for having seen it. Cheers!

[@oscarfernandez1574]

Is the shellac you are using here waxed or dewaxed? I want to follow your method exactly, but I don’t know which of the two (waxed or wax free) I should buy. -Oscar

[@Paul.Sellers]

It is dewaxed blonde shellac.

[@themrims3191]

I have a question. What do you do with the brush in between coats? Do you clean it with mineral spirits? Keep it soaked in a sealed container with denatured alcohol? Let it dry and then soften it by soaking it in denatured alcohol when applying the next coat?

[@Paul.Sellers]

Paul usually uses a jar of denatured alcohol and shakes the brush around in it. It doesn’t clean everything off the brush, put the brush in the same solution to soften it up before the next use. - Team Paul

[@Ljungbacken7181]

nice way to start the new year off, by puting a vidio on from 2015......

[@josephefasciani7343]

Better an old video by Paul, than no video by Paul!

[@jojox3021]

Nice job Paul, and happy New year with a great videos!

[@eoinmoore2003]

That's a buetiful bench Paul, is there plans or a build video on it?

[@Paul.Sellers]

Hello Eoin, it's a project on woodworkingmasterclasses.com called the Shaker Stool. It requires a paid subscription or you can sign up as a free member and buy the individual project.

[@eoinmoore2003]

Paul Sellers thank you very much Paul I really enjoy your work and videos and I have learned so much from you! I'm only 13 but I have managed to set up a small workshop in a garden shed and have progressed alot mostly thank to you thank you ver much Eoin

[@Offshoreorganbuilder]

Congratulations on your ability to write coherently - something which is rare in a person of your age!

[@MrMhanna18]

Paul Sellers

[@Theknotman1964]

Beautiful job

[@JoeDavis82]

Great video and great hair.

[@samlenlap]

I have seen many shallac polish videos but this is the first time someone using brush instead of wrag or cloth Two questions Why brush, is it better than cloth? Which type of brush you use, anything special?

[@bighands69]

People use cloth to add polished finished layers or they do it as a personal choice.

[@samlenlap]

@@bighands69 I think brush might leave some line strokes on finish

[@hoilst]

"Man, what a boring choice of wood for that project-" *first brushstroke of shellac goes on* "-WOW."