I’ve been working on restoring a Victorian parlor table and am stuck on what varnish to use. I’ve heard that shellac can be a good choice for its historical accuracy and ease of application, but I’m curious about its durability compared to newer polyurethanes. What do you all prefer for preserving the appearance while making sure it lasts?
Shellac can be a great choice for your Victorian table, especially for that authentic look you’re aiming for. I’ve found it helpful to apply a thin coat and then follow up with a light sanding before adding another layer; it enhances the finish and helps with durability. Have you considered testing the finish on a small, less visible area first?
You might find that a good quality varnish, like a satin polyurethane, offers better durability while still letting the beauty of the wood shine through. Just think of it as putting on a nice jacket; you want to protect the suit underneath without hiding it completely! Have you tried both to see how they compare?