How to Apply Shellac by Brush Zinsser Products Used: BULLS EYE® SHELLAC Other Materials Needed: Natural Bristle Brush Separate container for shellac
Project Description: The easiest and most common method of applying shellac is to brush it onto the surface. Here are some helpful application tricks that can be easily mastered. Please refer to “Other Ways to Apply Shellac” for instructions on how to apply shellac by wiping, spraying or aerosol application.
Project Steps:
Step 1 - Select your brush
For best results when brushing shellac use a quality natural bristle brush, such as china bristle or a brush that has a blend of china bristle and oxhair. If you choose a synthetic bristle brush, select one that is made from a blend of nylon and polyester bristles with flagged tips. The size of the brush will largely depend upon the size of the surface you are shellacking. For most large surfaces use a 2” or 3” wide wall brush. For narrow moldings, crevices and intricately carved areas use a small (1” or 2” wide) angled sash brush.
Step 2 - Pour shellac into a clean, separate container.
Pour a small quantity of shellac into a clean, separate container. Dip half the length of the bristles into shellac and very lightly tap the flat side of the brush against the side of the container. Do not draw the brush across the top lip of the container or you will lose much of the shellac from the bristles as well as force air into the coating, causing bubbles to form in the finish.
Step 3 - Apply shellac
For best results, apply 3 coats of shellac. Apply the first coat to the surface using full, even strokes following the wood grain. To avoid drips and runs when applying to vertical surfaces load the brush with a little less shellac. The trick to brushing shellac is to work quickly and evenly. Shellac begins to set up almost immediately, so do not over-brush.
Step 4 - Smooth bubbles and let dry for one hour
Just before the film sets – when shellac is still wet but no longer flowing – go back over it lightly with the tip of the brush to take out any bubbles. If you discover a missed spot do not attempt to touch it up – brushing after shellac sets will lift or wrinkle the finish. Wait for the next coat before touching up areas that may have been missed. Subsequent coats will blend any touch-ups into the overall finish.
Step 5 - Apply additional coats until desired finish is reached
After the first coat is dry, apply 2 or more additional coats until desired finish is reached. Let second coat dry to the touch before lightly sanding and applying the final finish coat.