French Polishing: The Best Way to Restore your Antiques

Apr 13, 2015

Recently modern oils, lacquers and polyurethanes have replaced customary finishes for antique furniture. However, French polishing still remains the best solution for restoring or repairing antiques. If you have pieces of financial or sentimental value, why take a chance with modern methods that may cause permanent damage? French polishing is a tried and true technique that you can depend on.

Proven Techniques

Traditional French polishing is a wood finishing method that consists of a special type of shellac dissolved in alcohol. The technique started in the 18th century during the Victoria era. As well, this type of polishing was generally used on high quality wood such as cherry and mahogany. In addition, French polishing was the leading finish for elegant furniture and string instruments like pianos and guitars. Regrettably, the technique was replaced with cheaper and poorer quality methods around 1930. This was due to the labor intensity of French polishing.

Today, French polishing is quickly becoming a rediscovered technique that still remains quite effective. As it happens, people have recognized that French polishing can actually be more efficient and cost effective than modern methods. What is more, French polishing is by far more tolerant and durable than the majority of modern finishes.

For example, Linseed and Tung oil will darken with age and has minimal protection against wood damage. Oil based polyurethane yellows over time and requires some skill to apply correctly. Water based polyurethane provides even less protection than oil based polyurethane. And when it comes to lacquers, they are high maintenance and need to be reapplied at least every other year. In addition, most lacquers can only be stored about six months. And even worse, a lacquer finish will turn different colors if it comes in contact with water, salt or everyday chemicals. Additionally, both polyurethane and lacquers are highly flammable and are a health concern if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. However, French polishing is not flammable, is easily repaired and does not require constant maintenance.

A Beautiful Finish for Your Antique Furniture

French polishing has a deep color, a lustrous surface and an optical reflectance like the gemstone Tiger’s Eye. In fact, the finish is considered one of the most stunning ways to finish high quality wood and antiques. Although the finish is regarded as fragile because it is softer than lacquers and other varnishes, it is a lot easier to repair. As well, a French polish will blend into an existing finish without problems.

French Polishing Your Antique Furniture

When it comes to restoring your antique furniture it is extremely important that you use the right polishing technique. If a poor quality technique is applied, the results could be irreparable. In fact, it could damage the piece permanently. However, a skilled French polisher is highly experienced in the best polishing technique for an individual piece of furniture. They know the exact technique for all the intricate details of traditional French polishing. The method is truly an art and requires precise timing of applications, knowledge about rubbing motions and familiarity of spiriting off streaks.

Finding an Experienced French Polisher in Victoria

Lord’s Antiques are the prominent French polisher in the Victoria area. They have over 30 years of expertise in French polishing and antique restoration. Additionally, their outstanding reputation is paramount. And what makes Lord’s Antiques stand out from their competitors? They have no middle man whatsoever. The person that answers your questions is the same person that works on your restoration.

What is more, Lord’s Antiques are honored to say that their work is done traditionally to ensure a high quality finish. This includes working by hand and not manufactured or polished by machine. At Lord’s Antiques, your prized furniture and antiques are in excellent care.

Contact Us

Rear 404 Burke Road, Camberwell VIC 3124
Mobile: 0417 585 207
Email: rod@lordsantiques.com.au

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