In French Polishing it is usual to work with thinned Seedlac: 50% thinners, 50% Seedlac.
The applying pad requires special care in preparation fig 9. As outlined already the surface to be polished must be prepared with the greatest care. review sections 2 & 3.
THE FOLLOWING IS AN ABBREVIATED INTRODUCTION TO POLISHING.
The first step in French Polishing is filling.
Choose a pad to be used exclusively for filling. Thin the Seedlac and fill the pad (not through the cover!) using only
about one or two teaspoonful. Rub the pad over the surface of the wood using a circular motion fig.9.
Occasionally add more thinned Seedlac.
Sprinkle just a little fine pumice on the surface as you continue to rub the pad over the wood. The pumice will grind off fine wood dust, mix with it and be forced into the pores of the wood, filling them. Because of this mixing, the colour will match the surrounding wood closely. Continue this process until all of the pores are filled.
BODYING UP;
Once the pores are filled, allow the filler at least 12 hours to cure before proceeding.
Change to a new pad to be used for building up a film of Seedlac on the surface. This pad is filled with thinned Seedlac. Sprinkle a few drops of Red Oil on the pad to lubricate the motion of the pad.
Work in quick circular strokes and keep the pad in constant motion. If the pad is left stationary for the slightest instant it will stick and mar the work. Feed the pad from the back with more Seedlac as the pad dries.
Let dry for 24 hours before applying the next coat. Do not attempt to start again after a few minutes, your rhythm will be gone, and the surface will be sticky and difficult to work without marking.
About three coats are needed to achieve a high gloss finish.