Shellac: History and Applications

Shellac is a natural resin produced by the lac bug, which is found in India and Thailand. The lac bug is a small, red insect that lives on trees. The insect secretes a resinous substance called lac. This resin is harvested from the trees and processed to produce shellac.

Harvesting begins by shaking the trees to loosen the lac that the lac bug has released. The lac is then collected and cleaned. The lac is dissolved in alcohol to produce a shellac solution. Shellac has been known for over 3,000 years and has been used for various purposes throughout history.

The discovery of shellac varnish likely occurred in India or Thailand when it was discovered that the lac secreted by the lac bug, when applied to wood surfaces, forms a beautiful and durable varnish. Shellac varnish was initially used for dyeing silk and leather, as a cosmetic rouge, and for decorating headwear.

Shellac varnish was introduced to Europe in the 16th century and quickly became popular. It was generally used to varnish wood furniture, musical instruments, and other objects.

The application of shellac is difficult because shellac is a resin that must be dissolved in alcohol. Shellac can be applied to wood surfaces with a brush, roller, cotton cloth, or spray gun. Applying shellac with a cotton cloth is the most common method, but it is difficult to apply the shellac layers evenly. Another reason why the application of shellac is difficult is that the shellac layers need time to dry. If the shellac layers are not completely dry, touching or placing something else on the wood surface can damage the shellac layers.

Despite the difficulty of applying shellac, it has many advantages. Shellac gives wood surfaces a beautiful and durable shine and protects them from water and scratches. Shellac also protects wood surfaces from UV rays, which prevents the wood from discoloring or cracking due to the sun.

In the 17th century, Stradivari violin makers used shellac to preserve the natural beauty of the wood, the lasting shine, and most importantly, the natural sound of the violin. In Stradivari violins, the surfaces were sanded smooth and dust and dirt were removed.

The reason shellac is dissolved in alcohol is to make it easier and faster to apply to the surface. The alcohol evaporates and the shellac remains.

Stradivari violin makers typically applied at least 40 coats of shellac to give the wood surfaces a deeper shine and protection.

The quality of the shellac varnish used in the construction of Stradivari violins contributes significantly to the sound of the violins. Shellac varnish better transmits the natural vibrations of the wood, allowing the violins to produce a richer and more beautiful sound.The application of shellac varnish in Stradivari violins is a process that requires skill and experience. Stradivari and other master luthiers developed special methods for applying shellac varnish. These methods have helped to preserve the sound and durability of the violins. In Turkey, famous string makers also use shellac for this reason.

Shellac varnish is now available ready-made. With a little discipline and skill, you can also apply this wonderful varnish to your objects. I would still like to introduce you to the method that I find the easiest.

Required materials:

Shellac varnish

Linseed oil

Cotton and cotton cloth

Wooden object

Sandpaper

Clean cloth

Application:

Sand the wooden object. This is done to remove any unevenness on the surface of the wood and to apply the shellac varnish more evenly. Use the sandpaper lightly to avoid damaging the texture of the wood.

Clean the wooden object. This is done to remove dust and dirt that have accumulated during sanding. Clean the wooden object with a damp cloth.Apply linseed oil to the object. Apply the oil as thinly as possible.Dip a cotton ball in the shellac varnish and squeeze out the excess liquid.Apply the shellac varnish to the surface of the wooden object. Apply the shellac varnish in circular motions.Allow the shellac varnish to dry. Shellac varnish usually dries within a few minutes.

Repeat this process. Over time, you will figure out how many coats you want to apply, as the more coats you apply, the more shine and protection you will get.

Tips:

Apply the shellac varnish in thin coats.

Rub the shellac varnish well into the pores of the wood.

Do not use the wooden object before the shellac varnish is completely dry.

Additional information:

Shellac varnish is usually applied in at least 10 coats. This gives the wooden object a deeper shine and protection.

Shellac varnish protects the surface of wooden objects from water and scratches.

Shellac varnish is a natural product and preserves the natural beauty of the wood.