Please click on any of the images to enlarge.
So, I test drove her for a couple of months and boy does she sound good. So good - I didn't want to take her apart again - even to finish her. But I've got two other projects stewing right now and want to be done with this one. So, it's time to 'finish' this one up.
I decided to try using shellac for this build. If you are unfamiliar with what shellac is - go here.
I decided to make my own shellac instead of buying a can of it. The reason for this is that it was advertised as an easy process (it was) and the end result is supposed to come out better (it looks good to me). Making shellac is pretty easy. You buy the flakes (thank you Rockler), grind them up a bit, add denatured alcohol (how much alcihol determines the 'cut'), stir or shake the mixture, wait 24 hours, and you have shellac. I went for a 2 pound cut. I probably should have gone lighter for my final coats - but such is life.
I also heard that you should strain your shellac before using it - as it might have impurities still in the flakes (read bug parts). I did not and was happy with my results. I might try doing so next time.
After you have your shellac you have to apply it. I chose to use a brush. Next time I will try a pad (this is also called French Polishing).
I'm just about done with the shellac as of this post (maybe 1 more coat to go) and I can say that I probably will put a top coat of laquer on top of it. I wasn't going to but after all of the coats that I've done - I don't want to have to do this again. The biggest problem with shellac is that it isn't terribly resistent to water and it is defensles against alcohol. So, if I spill anything on this - I'm back to square one. If I hit this which a couple of coats of laquer - this thing will look good and be protected - so that's what I'm gonna do. Check back for updates.
