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Maintenance and repair articles.

Modern Shellac Finish



Care: Much old furniture may have a shellac finish,
probably refinished at home. Keep moisture away from it;
water or a damp environment, as in humidity, makes
shellac sticky. Test in an inconspicuous spot with
denatured alcohol; shellac will dissolve quickly.

Regular Cleaning: Vacuum and/or dust with a soft, dry
cloth; do not use oiled or treated cloth.

Special Cleaning: Protect finish with a liquid furniture
wax or cream polish that gives the desired gloss.
If dirty, clean with either a cleaning/polishing wax for
furniture. Following the directions on the label for
cleaning; or use a solution of equal parts of boiled
linseed oil and mineral spirits. Moisten a soft cloth
with cleaner and rub briskly, changing cloth when soiled.
If surface is very dirty, process may have to be
repeated. Use 3/0 or 4/0 steel wool to remove stubborn
soil and smooth roughened places. If finish is in poor
condition, use denatured alcohol to remove, and refinish
with modern finish.

CAUTION: When using mineral spirits or other
solvents, follow all label directions and warnings. They
are flammable, so don't use near flame or spark or pilot
light, and don`t smoke.

Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and
dispose of them afterward or wash with hot suds and let
them air dry thoroughly before storing. Work in well-
ventilated room and avoid breathing fumes. Air-dry cloths
used to evaporate solvent before disposing.

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