French Polisher of Antique Furniture in Victoria
Mar 13, 2015Traditional French polishing is a wood finishing technique that goes back hundreds of years. It originated in the 18th century during the Victoria era. The technique was commonly used on expensive wood such as mahogany. As well, French polishing was considered the preeminent finish for high quality furniture and string instruments like guitars and pianos. Unfortunately the technique was abandoned around 1930 because of labor intensity. In its place were cheaper, faster and poorer quality techniques.
Today the art of French polishing is quickly making a comeback. Through trial and error, people have discovered that this technique is actually more cost effective in the long run. Another reason why French polishing fell out of favor is because it had a tendency to dissolve under low heat. For instance, a hot cup left on the surface would leave round marks. On the other hand, French polishing is easily repaired and far more forgiving than most finishes such as lacquer.
The Beautiful Look of a French Polish
French polishing creates a deep color, a high gloss surface and a cat's eye effect that is often found in gemstones like Tiger’s Eye. French polishing is also a technique and process. It is not a particular material. Although the chief material used is shellac, there are other shellac finishes that are not used in French polishing. The process itself is very time consuming and quite repetitive. But the end product is well worth the effort. In truth, the finish is considered to be one of the most beautiful ways to finish antiques and high quality wood.
French Polishing and Antique Furniture
When it comes to antique furniture it is imperative that the right polishing technique be utilized for refinishing. If the wrong technique is used there can be unrepairable damage. Once a piece is damaged the repairs will be phenomenal in order to get it restored back to its original state.
An expert French polisher knows the specific combination of various rubbing motions, length of time needed between applications, is familiar with building up layers of polish and is knowledgeable on spiriting off streaks that may be on the surface.
You also want to make sure that you hire a professional French polisher that specifically does antiques. That way you are assured of quality results. An expert will have years of experience, training and a good rapport with their customers.
French Polishers in Victoria
The leading French polisher in the Victoria area is Lord’s Antiques. Not only do they have over 30 years’ experience in antique restoration and French polishing but they also have an outstanding reputation. And at Lord’s Antiques, there is no middle man. The person answering your enquiry is the same person working on the restoration.
Finding an expert French polisher is nearly impossible. Most regular polishers take shortcuts by using special equipment or cheaper varnish that results in a poor quality piece. However, Lord’s Antiques takes pride in working the traditional way and does all their restorations by hand. Their polishing process is old fashioned but the results are one of the most beautiful French polishes you have ever seen.
What is more, their reputation precedes them. It is built on a fabulous rapport with their clients resulting in repeat customers and numerous referrals. So whether you need a complete restoration or French polishing, your antiques are in professional hands at Lord’s Antiques.
Contact Us
Rear 404 Burke Road, Camberwell VIC 3124
Mobile: 0417 585 207
Email: rod@lordsantiques.com.au
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