French
Polishing
The purpose of the finish on a piece of fine furniture - its
raison d'etre, to add a little French polish - is for surface
protection and figurative enhancement.
The simplest definition of French Polishing is "The application
of a glossy surface to timber, by the means of a Lac or Shellac
solution". Shellac being a polish made from the exudation
of the Lac Beetle, mixed with methylated spirit.
Though finishing techniques can reproduce a variety of looks
in the refurbishment of fine furniture, only time can produce
that genuinely antique look - a look that had its roots in
the original finish.
If the purpose of French Polishing is simple, (being to seal
the timber, and prevent movement due to moisture absorption)
but the practice is as complex as the craft is old. It wears
well and keeps the dirt out, whilst providing a superior finish.
And refurbishing furniture that has been properly finished
in the first place is particularly challenging, though, when
you get it right, its enormously rewarding for craftsman and
client.
French Polishing is a very popular finish for fine pieces
of furniture, and the application is an art in itself. The
application of numerous layers of polish by a rubber (a pad
made of wadding and cloth to apply the polish) until the desired
degree of depth is obtained. Then the piece of work is cut
back by the craftsman until the desired finish is obtained.
In the hands of a capable craftsman hand French Polishing
provides an immaculate finish to your furniture, whilst enhancing
the features of the timber.
Check out our separate French
Polishers Northern Ireland web site for more details on
our services for;
Full written quotations are available - please contact
us for more details.
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