I`ve used shellac on small boxes as a finish. Just rubbing it on with a cloth, not actually French polishing. Its a lovely finish and is so hard and glass like. Not like some varnishes that are so soft you can put your nails in to it. Nice video!
Excellent video and process. Just Beautiful. A work of Art. The music in the background was perfect. It made me grab my guitar and play along. I pray your guitars play and sound as beautiful as they look. Your level of workmanship is what we always say, "Do your best. Always". Thank you for sharing.
When i watch a video like this hoping to learn a more of a process in this case french polishing i feel more that i learn to appreciate the craftmanship the dedication and the art. Thank you for sharing
Thanks for your input James. I guess it comes down to what works for me. I've never owned or used spray equipment (and brushes are cheap). Brushing lets me to isolate each component (top, back, sides, neck & headstock). This allows me to heavily flood (pool) each surface insuring maximum depth of penetration. I believe this is much more critical for a shellac vs lacquer finish.
killer... i'm thinking of using shellac as a sealer for my ukulele. i've never been one to care too much about finishes on my own instruments, but i must say this is impressive to watch.
Traditional french polish finish its really difficult but the result of your alternative is absolutely astonishing! And it's also the fastest way to achive an amazing result! I'll try it on the next guitar!
Great job, thanks for shariing your giftings with us. Love your work. I'm gonna try the brush on my next guitar job. spraying is a beautiful finish but the difference is with the hand rub finish the pressure of the application causes the shellac to move deeper into the wood. The plus side is the no fumes part. Also touch up on french polish is very easy It does take practice, but I've never had a bad finish with french polish...on my 10th guitar
The term is french polishing, there is not a product called French polish, it is shellac which comes from a beetle in southern Indian and Malaya. The method of applying shellac was originated by two brothers from france called Martin, in the 17th century it did not become widely used until they traveled to England and coincided with the use of Mahogany in the furnature industry a perfect finish for hardwoods. The method used was to apply shellac with a rubber, a cotton cloth folded around cotton wadding to apply a series of very thin coats to built up using varying pressure to achieve a mirror like finish but the the product is shellac.
la neta mis respetos me imagino que eres profecional en esto la verdad te felicito desde el corazon de tamaulipas ciudad victoria y garcias por subir este video
After the first one or two "flood coats", the finish is removed back down to the wood . . .leaving a smooth even "foundation". Scraping the bindings (and the rest of the guitar for that matter) eliminates much of the initial sanding and saves sandpaper. The corner of the binding is later removed with the scraper, leaving a 45 degree chamfer. See my web-site for a more detailed description of the entire process.
That is the best video , to learn the real secrets how to make your guitar look so amazing, thank you master , this is kind of video which makes you to subscribe without even been asked to do so 😉🎸
I think Les's method for finishing is fabulous. I liked it so much I wrote it up step by step as I saw it and asked Les's opinion. Well, as you can imagine I missed a few things but after a couple of conversations, rewrites and spell checks, I think I'm pretty close. Les was kind enough to post this entire write up to his website. I hope this helps you as much as it did me. Les again Les!!
So, sort of a semi-French polish finish. Very smart. The time spent "bodying up" isn't worth it, and these results speak for themselves. Next time, I'm going to try this method. Thanks, Les!
Hi Les, Thanks for the great video. Your instrument is beautiful! Do you have any experience using Meguiar's Plast-X in place of the Novus product? I applied some to a scrap piece of wood over several coats of shellac and did not find that any immediate burn-through occurred. Thanks!
Beautiful work. Without buffing, shellac is impossible to apply completely flat: a close inspection will reveal small streaks. One solution is to build a coat of shellac to serve as a barrier then finish with nitrocellulose. Thus the beauty of shellac is preserved, and the finish will not dull over time. Just my experience.
The title says: Hand applied shellac . . . an alternative to French Polish. But French Polish is hand applied! Your method of shellac finishing is awesome, so if I use regular shellac(standard shellac or unwaxed white shellac) and build up the finishing, i realy just need to sand it trough 12000 grit and than apply polish? It amazing!
Yes, "French Polish" is hand applied, but there are many other methods to "hand apply"a finish . . . you are on the right track. But whatever method you use, the "Flood Coats" are the foundation and the key to a solid build-up.
Perdón muy buen trabajó pero la guitarra que muestra tiene un clavijero distinto ?? O eso me parece cuando hace el trabajo de cambiar la pala de la guitarra ya que no se muestra o es otra guitarra ?
LMI HAS ALL THE WOODS that all the Luthier's needs, I want to remember our second best Luthier's here in Puerto Rico that pass away Fidencio Díaz from canovanillas Puerto Rico.
when you first applied shellac with a brush, was that grain filling? is there any difference in preparing the shellac for filling than it is for making a clear coat? do you mix it thicker?
Hello! Is it ok to use an NGR penetrating wood stain on an acoustic guitar? I have bought one online but I'm worried it could muffle my guitar or something. The plan is to stain both fretboard and body and then apply clear lacquer top coat on the body
Very nice vídeo! I'm a classical guitar music fan, since I was six years old. I have a guitar which is with me over 30 Years or so. IT has some minors scratches, and will like to know which aré the products you used and where the y can be bougth. Dr. Leo Melendez-León. Could you pesase, tell me moré details. Thanks a lot! LML.
Nice video..question? 1.what did you use to change the color? 2 can i stain the wood to achieve my color and then shellac?.last what is the dark stuff in the bottle..
Video I watched so well :-) Are you using a sponge for sanding work? I also have a shellac finishing guitar. It's different in gloss. I wonder which Sponge?
the best sponge has to be dense, but soft enough and not the ones with sandpaper all in one you just want the sponge Lee Valley carries them Stewmac sells them Lmi sells them
I`ve used shellac on small boxes as a finish. Just rubbing it on with a cloth, not actually French polishing. Its a lovely finish and is so hard and glass like. Not like some varnishes that are so soft you can put your nails in to it. Nice video!
Excellent video and process. Just Beautiful. A work of Art. The music in the background was perfect. It made me grab my guitar and play along. I pray your guitars play and sound as beautiful as they look. Your level of workmanship is what we always say, "Do your best. Always". Thank you for sharing.
When i watch a video like this hoping to learn a more of a process in this case french polishing i feel more that i learn to appreciate the craftmanship the dedication and the art.
Thank you for sharing
Everything about this video is exceptional. True artist at work.
You Sir, are a true craftsman! Thank you for sharing this with us!
Thanks for your input James. I guess it comes down to what works for me. I've never owned or used spray equipment (and brushes are cheap). Brushing lets me to isolate each component (top, back, sides, neck & headstock). This allows me to heavily flood (pool) each surface insuring maximum depth of penetration. I believe this is much more critical for a shellac vs lacquer finish.
Stunning work. I especially like the rosette, A beautiful departure from the classic. I only wish I could afford one. :)
Excellent technique and demo. Thanks!
Beautiful guitar, nice explained process and great music - very relaxing and inspiring.
Wow... How beautiful to watch. I sure would love to play that beautiful guitar :)
This process and video are excellent. I have never done this with shellac but will try it.
thanks Sam
That's a gorgeous finish! I'm embarrassed to say that I didn't realize sandpaper went to grits that high. Thanks for sharing!
killer... i'm thinking of using shellac as a sealer for my ukulele. i've never been one to care too much about finishes on my own instruments, but i must say this is impressive to watch.
Absolutely exquisite guitars. And music!!!!
Watching from Brazil, Thanks for sharing your knowledge, I had the same ideas, I'm happy to see that these ideas work!
Beautiful looking guitar, the venue Rosetta is particularly nice and the finish is stunning.
Les i simply love this method.To date for me the best method,a great way and time saving
Very very nicely done! Thanks for sharing
Traditional french polish finish its really difficult but the result of your alternative is absolutely astonishing! And it's also the fastest way to achive an amazing result! I'll try it on the next guitar!
Thank you. I am just getting into shellac and this is a cool method
Great job, thanks for shariing your giftings with us. Love your work. I'm gonna try the brush on my next guitar job.
spraying is a beautiful finish but the difference is with the hand rub finish the pressure of the application causes the shellac to move deeper into the wood. The plus side is the no fumes part. Also touch up on french polish is very easy
It does take practice, but I've never had a bad finish with french polish...on my 10th guitar
A clear demonstration of how patience is, indeed, a virtue.
KILLER guitar ditty in the background!
The term is french polishing, there is not a product called French polish, it is shellac which comes from a beetle in southern Indian and Malaya. The method of applying shellac was originated by two brothers from france called Martin, in the 17th century it did not become widely used until they traveled to England and coincided with the use of Mahogany in the furnature industry a perfect finish for hardwoods. The method used was to apply shellac with a rubber, a cotton cloth folded around cotton wadding to apply a series of very thin coats to built up using varying pressure to achieve a mirror like finish but the the product is shellac.
Stunning finish
Beautiful guitar!
This is badass frickin finishing 🔨
nice process ! Thank you for taking the time and effort to share it all.
cheers
John Gavin
WOW , BEAUTIFUL
la neta mis respetos me imagino que eres profecional en esto la verdad te felicito desde el corazon de tamaulipas ciudad victoria y garcias por subir este video
After the first one or two "flood coats", the finish is removed back down to the wood . . .leaving a smooth even "foundation". Scraping the bindings (and the rest of the guitar for that matter) eliminates much of the initial sanding and saves sandpaper. The corner of the binding is later removed with the scraper, leaving a 45 degree chamfer. See my web-site for a more detailed description of the entire process.
Nice work!
That is the best video , to learn the real secrets how to make your guitar look so amazing, thank you master , this is kind of video which makes you to subscribe without even been asked to do so 😉🎸
I think Les's method for finishing is fabulous. I liked it so much I wrote it up step by step as I saw it and asked Les's opinion. Well, as you can imagine I missed a few things but after a couple of conversations, rewrites and spell checks, I think I'm pretty close. Les was kind enough to post this entire write up to his website. I hope this helps you as much as it did me.
Les again Les!!
Thanks for putting that together. I just happened upon your article on his site. It is very helpful.
Great Job! I like the rosete idea.
Beautiful!
That finish looks 😮❤
impecable trabajo... gracias por compartir
I have much respect for Mr. Nelson.
Beautiful video
Quiero unaaa !!! divina viola !! saludos desde Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷
Excelente trabalho,gostei do video, parabéns, técnica perfeita.
So, sort of a semi-French polish finish. Very smart. The time spent "bodying up" isn't worth it, and these results speak for themselves. Next time, I'm going to try this method. Thanks, Les!
I'm actually finishing a table with shellac and this was quite helpful. Never knew 8000 grit sandpaper existed but will try to go as fine as I can
Micro Mesh. Cloth-backed, not paper-backed. Washable.
Hi, beautiful work. I'd like to know how many coats you do before sanding at 220 grain, and how many coats to finish with the pad.
thank you.
amazing!!!
amazing guitar!! Ö
Nice work man!
Beautifull video :)
bellissima!!!
Hi Les,
Thanks for the great video. Your instrument is beautiful!
Do you have any experience using Meguiar's Plast-X in place of the Novus product? I applied some to a scrap piece of wood over several coats of shellac and did not find that any immediate burn-through occurred.
Thanks!
Thank you for sharing
Perfect!!!
Your technique is much superior than French Polishing in terms of both quality and efficiency. Thanks so much for sharing this.
Amazing video Les! What pound cut shellac are your brushing on? dewaxed? How about when you pad on the shellac? 1 pound cut? thanks - beautiful guitar
Técnica muito bem apurada, parabéns..
very good video and very funny, especially the progression from 1500 to 12,000. Which apply before sanding, sealant or varnish is?
Beautiful work. What's the time on a finish like this, and what was the dark liquid in the squeeze bottle?
Cool my friend... Cool.
I like your technique for installing the golpeador.
Nice job!
very nice beautiful blonde finish. keep up the great work
the finish looks amazing, man. how do they hold up?
@stansellguitars Thanks for the answer, that is very helpful.
Beautiful work. Without buffing, shellac is impossible to apply completely flat: a close inspection will reveal small streaks. One solution is to build a coat of shellac to serve as a barrier then finish with nitrocellulose. Thus the beauty of shellac is preserved, and the finish will not dull over time. Just my experience.
It's shellac, so it is equal in durability to the best applied "French Polish". Everything depends on and is built on the first (flood) coats.
Lindo trabalho amigo, parabens!
I would think so . . . although I would always recommend trying new procedures on a test piece first.
Awesome
Music by Vlatko Stefanovski and Miroslav Tadic,great job very nice guitar!
The title says: Hand applied shellac . . . an alternative to French Polish.
But French Polish is hand applied!
Your method of shellac finishing is awesome, so if I use regular shellac(standard shellac or unwaxed white shellac) and build up the finishing, i realy just need to sand it trough 12000 grit and than apply polish? It amazing!
@lesstansellguitars thanks for the answer
Great video! Once you've built up the body of shellac, how long do you leave it to harden before you sand it with the various grades of micro mesh?
Amigo, você poderia encinar a preparar essa goma laca especial que você usa? Da para perceber que tem algo a mais nessa goma laca!
Greetings,
could you please tell me what type of flakes? how do you not get lines with shellac?
Beautiful work!
Are you sanding everything dry?
I have proplems to see if i removed al scratches from the previouis grit. Do you have an advice for this?
thank you Les
Yes, "French Polish" is hand applied, but there are many other methods to "hand apply"a finish . . . you are on the right track. But whatever method you use, the "Flood Coats" are the foundation and the key to a solid build-up.
Perdón muy buen trabajó pero la guitarra que muestra tiene un clavijero distinto ?? O eso me parece cuando hace el trabajo de cambiar la pala de la guitarra ya que no se muestra o es otra guitarra ?
LMI HAS ALL THE WOODS that all the Luthier's needs, I want to remember our second best Luthier's here in Puerto Rico that pass away Fidencio Díaz from canovanillas Puerto Rico.
Very nice work. How long did it take you to finish this kind of varnish ? Thx
Yes, the flood coats are shellac and alcohol.
You are correct . . .
toda una creación artística esa guitarra
Although it wasn't shown in video, I'm assuming the back and sides received the same treatment as the top?
awesome
I swear, that is fucking incredible
Thank you.
Hello how can i clean a dry drop of varnish from factory on the guitar body?
when you first applied shellac with a brush, was that grain filling? is there any difference in preparing the shellac for filling than it is for making a clear coat? do you mix it thicker?
Hello! Is it ok to use an NGR penetrating wood stain on an acoustic guitar? I have bought one online but I'm worried it could muffle my guitar or something. The plan is to stain both fretboard and body and then apply clear lacquer top coat on the body
What color shellac should i use for an aged brown top?
Excellent Workmanship. Is it possible to use Nitro Cellulose Laquer ?
Very nice vídeo! I'm a classical guitar music fan, since I was six years old. I have a guitar which is with me over 30 Years or so. IT has some minors scratches, and will like to know which aré the products you used and where the y can be bougth. Dr. Leo Melendez-León. Could you pesase, tell me moré details. Thanks a lot! LML.
I wish i can get this guitar 😍
Thanks for posting! Could you explain why you scrape the bindings at 1:25? Does the application of the shellac leave a lip at the edges?
How do you clean the shellac off the micromesh pads??? Alcohol seems to ruin the pads...
Hello what's the name of this paint and where it is sold in internet
Nice video..question? 1.what did you use to change the color? 2 can i stain the wood to achieve my color and then shellac?.last what is the dark stuff in the bottle..
That's all shellac.. Garnet shellac if I'm not mistaken.
Video I watched so well :-)
Are you using a sponge for sanding work?
I also have a shellac finishing guitar.
It's different in gloss.
I wonder which Sponge?
the best sponge has to be dense, but soft enough and not the ones with sandpaper all in one you just want the sponge Lee Valley carries them Stewmac sells them Lmi sells them
amazing finish...please share the song in the back ground