SPIRITING OFF;
Once you have achieved surface build up your final step remains. Oil used to lubricate the pad needs to be removed from
the surface, this process is called Spiriting.
Allow the last coat to dry for at least 24 hours. Change to a new pad and charge with alcohol. The pad should be almost dry.
Rub the pad with the grain, use very light pressure, to remove the oil.
Do not go over the same spot twice, or you will soften the finish.
Rest for two hours, then repeat if necessary.
A lot depends on touch and much can be gained through practice.
If you take time you will be rewarded with beautiful finishes.
OPEN PORE FRENCH POLISHING;
To produce an open pore finish, the pad is filled with diluted Seedlac and is always moved with the grain.
No oil is necessary.
The trick here is to stop polishing as soon as the pad gets sticky. Move to a new area attacking only those areas you can cope with at a session.
Note that it is a mistake to assume that applying more product equals a faster finish. The pad should never be wet or dripping, if you get impatient you may find yourself with twice as much repair work to do in the end.
Pay attention to the weather conditions, a cold dry day is very difficult to work effectively the temperature is very important, 25 degrees C is the minimum ambient temperature required. On a hot & humid 35 degree plus day you can build up an astonishing depth of finish in a short time, mind you don't perspire onto the work though -a two week job in the summer can be a two month job in the winter! So pick your time with a little care and observation.