FRENCH POLISHING! Finer Finishers ( Brisbane ) Mini History Lesson French Polishing is the application of many thin coats of shellac, which is derived from the excretion of the Lab beetle. The first reference of shellac appears as early as 1590, but it's use was confined to the Far East until traders introduced it to Europe in the 1700's. It wasn't until the 1800's though that the process was refined by the French. French Polishing was the industry standard in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, but the process is labour intensive and by the 1930's had been abandoned by many major manufacturers for the cheaper technique of spray finishing. Although French Polishing is vulnerable to heat, it is also more forgiving than lacquers as it can be efficiently repaired, and is still considered to give the best possible finish.

Restoration

Here at Finer Finishers Brisbane our philosophy on furniture restoration is that an antique should look like an antique, not as though it's brand new. A much loved piece, cared for over the ages, must be treated with the respect it deserves. If the restoration process is not carried out correctly, using the right materials, it can take away from the look and feel and most importantly the character of the piece.

Strip and Repair

For furniture stripping and paint removal we use a specialised process that removes old polish and paint from any surface. The solution used is totally safe and will not darken or dry out the timber of even the oldest and most delicate of pieces. Any necessary repairs can then be carried out by replacing broken drawers, fixing damaged legs and surfaces, repairing or replacing handles.

French Polishing

Now on to the French Polishing department where the piece is given a new lease on life. Many thin coats of shellac are applied to the wood, which results in a high gloss and very tough surface, deep and rich in colour. There are many cheap imitations of the true process, and very few people still offer it, but when you see the real thing you will agree that French Polishing really does give a finer finish.