How to Repair a Scratch in Shellac

Shellac is an organic resin made from the Laccifera lacca. This insect is found mainly in India. Many 19th-century antiques made from wood were finished with shellac. Over time, even the best-kept piece of furniture can become scratched. Repairing a scratch in shellac is not difficult to do, and it is a project that even an amateur wood restorer can do on his own.

• 1

  Make your mixture of shellac by mixing shellac flakes with alcohol. Put 2 oz. of shellac flakes into an airtight jar and add 8 oz. of alcohol. Put the lid on and leave this mixture to set for 24 to 48 hours. Stir the mixture every six to eight hours during that time.

• 2

  Place cheesecloth to cover the bottom and sides of a wire mesh basket. Strain the shellac through cheesecloth into another clean airtight jar. This will remove any flakes that did not dissolve.

• 3

  Add colored shellac or dye to make the repair shellac the same color as the furniture you are repairing. Pour in another 8 oz. of alcohol.

• 4

  Clean the scratched area with a wood cleaner made for shellac. Allow the surface to dry thoroughly before going on to the next step.

• 5

  Lightly sand the damaged area with 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe the dust or debris with a cloth, making sure the area is dust free.

• 6

  Apply a thin layer of shellac with a natural bristle brush, going in the direction of the wood grain. Do not over brush, because this will produce bubbles, ruining the smooth finish.

• 7

  Allow the shellac to dry. The drying time varies, from one to four or more hours, depending on the humidity and temperature of the day.

• 8

  Sand the area with 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe the area with a cloth to remove any dust or debris.

• 9

  Repeat Steps 6 through 8 until you are satisfied with the way it looks.

• 10

  Rub the area with 0000 steel wool dipped in a mixture of paste wax and mineral spirits. Mix paste wax with a mineral spirits until the mixture resembles a thick gravy. Dip the steel wool in the wax mixture and apply, making sure to go with the wood grain.

• 11

  Wipe off the excess mixture and leave your wood piece alone to dry for 24 hours.

• 12

  Apply paste wax full strength and allow this to dry or haze over. Buff the area with a soft cotton cloth.