Jeff's Workbench

In talking with Bill about a finish for the crib, he recommended using shellac.  it’s non-toxic (key, since the kid could chew on it), easy to apply, and it comes in a variety of colors.  So, on Monday, I order the sample pack from http://shop.shellacfinishes.biz/.  It comes with a 4 oz. sample of the Super Blonde, Beige, Orange, and Garnet.  Bill split the cost with me as I think he wanted to see the quality.  It showed up today.  Not bad for USPS from CA.

Tonight I took the four samples and split them in half.  2 oz. of each color for each of us.  Then I made up a small sample of each.  8 oz of denatured alcohol and 1 oz of the shellac flakes.  That’s a 1# cut.  Should be good for my testing on the wood.

Above I’m measuring out the shellac.  I made a little paper tray and used a small scale I already had.  Then I dumped that into old butter containers I had.  The lid seals nicely so I’m not worried about leakage as I shake them.  8 oz of alcohol fills those containers right to the top.

Then I labeled them with a Sharpie.

I think they will be ready tomorrow, but I’m probably not going to be ready to use it.  I’m going to the Woodcraft store tomorrow night.  Rob Cosman is going to be there showing how to fettle old planes.  Should be a fun evening.  Testing on Saturday!

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