
What Finish Is This?
Elisha AlbretsenDescription
First, it helps to consider the most common finishes. If the piece has a film finish (one that forms a layer on top of the wood rather than soaking into it), it’s likely to be one of the following types: shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane. From there, Elisha “The Pneumatic Addict” demonstrates how to use the chemical and resistance properties of each finish to apply a series of simple tests to identify the finish on the piece.
Elisha shows her method for making new wood look old, which involves a few straightforward steps:
Gather the necessary products: Elisha provides details on the materials you’ll need to perform the tests that help identify the finish applied.
Apply chemicals to the finish: Proceed with applying the chemicals one at a time, following the specific order recommended.
Observe the results: Take your time to ensure you allow the expected reaction to occur and carefully watch for any changes.