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French polish help needed
http://www.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=49386		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  Dave Livermore [ Sun May 21, 2017 10:26 am ]
Post subject:  French polish help needed
I think I have my technique basically dialed in.
After many guitars though, I am seeking some advice.

How do I get the finish to lay down flat and smooth. This has a bit of texture that I describe as almost leathery.
I hope surface prep is npt the issue because This sucker was flat and smooth and PERFECT.

Any ideas will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Dave
Author:  jfmckenna [ Sun May 21, 2017 11:57 am ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
I have the same problem and what works for me is a good level sanding before the last two or three sessions. Then glazing with a stiff hard stroke. It's not the way the old world masters do it but it works for me ;)
Author:  Dave Livermore [ Sun May 21, 2017 5:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
Robbie O'Brian chimed in and let me know I am piling too much shellac on.
He too recommended a level with sandpaper after a good cure and buff out.
Author:  Pat Foster [ Sun May 21, 2017 6:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
Dave,

Maybe not enough time between sessions.

Pat
Author:  Dave Livermore [ Sun May 21, 2017 9:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
Yeah yeah yeah Pat. I know. Patience.
How long is that gonna take?
Author:  Mike Collins [ Tue May 23, 2017 1:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
get in contact with David Laplante.

he's on this forum.

Mike
Author:  Imbler [ Tue May 23, 2017 6:58 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
jfmckenna wrote:
I have the same problem and what works for me is a good level sanding before the last two or three sessions. Then glazing with a stiff hard stroke. It's not the way the old world masters do it but it works for me ;)


Yep, I do the same. A good level sanding before the last few sessions and use a pretty dilute shellac so it really puts out a thing layer. Robbie's point is good as well; if you are just applying that ghosty film vapor that disappears it really has no choice but to go on smooth,
Mike
Author:  James Orr [ Tue May 23, 2017 11:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
The old world masters might not level, but I know Eugene Clark did! Tom Bills teaches his method in the Luthier's Edge French Polishing course.
Author:  wbergman [ Wed May 24, 2017 2:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: French polish help needed
I recall a lecture by Richard Brune printed in GAL in which he mentioned to sand with fine grit dry after building. I do not recall if that was between building coats or just prior to spiriting off.
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