Hello to the Finishing Experts and those who Want To Be
I introduced myself to the handtools Neanderthals and the Sharpening "Fools" downstairs two or so weeks ago. I would link that post If I knew how to do so.
For many years( I am 61) I have primarily finished highly figured American Black Walnut. I would frequently start with a good filler, a few sealcoats of shellac and then do what we call a sanded-in oil( with harderers) finish. This was my choice and I could choose to finish with rubbed out high gloss or take it down to semi- and /or satin.
Over the years, from time to time I dabbled in luthiery and recently got back to it. I can do a decent acoustic but nowhere near the excellence my betters display. But, that re-sparked my interest in handtools and their use, tuning and building. As I did more and more wooden plane prototypes and rehandled vintage chisels and restored vintage french polish flatwork, I became curious about any new developments in shellac.
Through just luck( here we call it 'dumb luck') I learned of U-Beaut Hard Shellac. It was a small shipment to the US that was somewhat scooped up by US luthiers and their enthusiam for it that caused me to find all of you and a generous friend put one of those precious few 500ml bottles in my hands. To say I quickly became very impressed with the HS is an understatement. I could even lay it on with an FP "rubber/muneca" full strength and french polish with cuts. Other luthiers who tried it were impressed with its stability, predicable application, reliable cure and "blond+ color." I have experienced the same positive results.
I am making a concerted effort to provide this special product and accessory products of U-Beaut to craftsmen in the US. A few folks from Australia have told me of the acceptance of HS by eminent restorers and dedicated luthiers in Australia. You see, as of now, the interest in HS is coming mostly from luthiers. I would very much like to hear from commission cabinetmakers, fine piece restorers and others here who use the HS for significant projects. My email address with a bit of spam blocker is [email protected]. I would also really enjoy experienced information right here on the forum. That may well be even better.
I have been fortunate to become a true friend to one of your number here on the forum sections. Neil has been kind enough to support my efforts to have U-Beaut Hard Shellac and other non-polish products shipped to the US for distribution. I have begun interviewing customs representatives and working through my country's bureaucracy regarding the importation of relatively low flash-point materials. I am a true believer- Neil's Hard Shellac is, indeed, a superior product. So, in closing, I would appreciate your stories and any photos you care to post showing the qualities of U-Beaut Hard Shellac, Blonde Shellac and the other products, not including EEE Polish, Shellawax and the like. They are well known here.
Thank you for your consideration.
Mike Tobey
