Home / Shop / Ruby Shellac, Free of Resin & Wax, Varnish, Natural Primer and Stain-blocking
Description

Ruby shellac is free of resin and wax, varnish, natural primer and stain-blocking that dissolves easily and contains no resin or wax. Artists, carpenters, decorators, and gilders use it in many ways. Gilders often brush shellac over gesso, which is made from rabbit skin glue and whiting, to keep the gilding size from mixing in. They also apply shellac over metal leaf after it is applied, using different methods to protect it from oxidation. For artists, shellac is a traditional sealer that helps give their work a polished, professional look.

Shellac for wood finishing & supplies

  • Shellac flakes, a natural resin, let woodworkers craft unique, lustrous finishes tailored to each project.
  • Denatured alcohol dissolves shellac flakes. Dewaxed shellac works as a universal seal coat, leaving topcoats untouched. Choose blond or clear shellac to highlight the wood’s natural colour. For a classic touch, try French polishing, a time-honoured method using a Microfibre Cloth and orange shellac.
  • Many woodworkers wonder how to mix shellac in different strengths, like the 1-pound or 2-pound cut, to achieve the perfect finish.
  • Shellac is especially valued in wood finishing and restoration for its versatility.
  • Wood varnish: for centuries, shellac has enhanced the appearance of furniture, musical instruments, and antiques. The traditional French polishing method, applied by hand, creates a smooth, elegant finish.
  • Sealant and primer: shellac adheres well, making it a preferred undercoat for many craftsmen. It serves as a wood primer, sanding sealant, tannin blocker, and can seal persistent odour.
  • Artwork isolator: artists use shellac as a protective layer or fixative between paint layers. between paint layers.

How to dissolve shellac

To dissolve shellac, add 100g of it to 1 litre of ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or methylated spirit in a glass jar. Seal the jar well and place it in a warm spot. Shake the jar several times to accelerate the dissolution process. Once the Shellac has completely dissolved, it is ready for use. Remember to keep it sealed, cool, and well!

  1. Add 100g of shellac to 1 liter of ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or methylated spirit in a glass jar.
  2. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm area.
  3. Shake the jar firmly several times to help dissolve.
  4. The shellac is ready for use once it has completely dissolved.
  5. Shellac serves as an excellent sealer for protecting artwork. You can apply it using a brush, cotton yarn, or microfiber-cloth.
  6. It is non-toxic in its natural state and is intended for indoor use only.

We also stock a selection of shellac finishes, including French Polish Orange shellac, Lemon shellac, Blond shellac, Clear Shellac, and Ruby shellac.

Recommended reading: How to remove shellac at hom DIY

Shipping

Shipping within New Zealand:

  • Enjoy free shipping on orders of $300 or more.
  • All orders are processed daily and shipped via NZ Post with a Track and Trace number.
  • Urban: from $10. Rural: from $12.
  • Saturday Delivery: from $24 (parcel will be delivered on Saturday).
  • Large or heavy products incur an extra shipping fee, which is applied automatically at checkout.

Shipping to Australia:

  • We dispatch orders to Australia daily. If you place your order before 2pm AU time, you can expect to receive your order within 10 days.
  • Orders placed after 2pm are processed the following business day.
  • All are shipped via DHL, FedEx or NZ Post (whichever is cheaper) with a Track and Trace number.
  • Our online shipping cost is estimated to the best of our ability. However, if you believe it is too high, please let us know.

Worldwide Shipping:

  • Add all the products you want to buy to your cart and then go to checkout.
  • Enter your address to get the shipping cost for your country.
  • Paying by PayPal: we receive your funds instantly and process your order immediately.
  • Paying by Bank Transfer: Make your payment and email us a screenshot so that we can process your order soon.
  • All orders are packaged nicely and securely, and a shipment tracking number will be emailed to you.
  • We use DHL, FedEx or NZ Courier to ship your parcel.
  • You can expect to receive your order within 15 days.
Gilding Size

Choosing the right gilding size is crucial for successful application. For special gilding projects, refer to the guide on Choosing The Right Gilding Adhesive.

Use the chart below to determine the right gilding size for your project

Gilding SizeIndoorOutdoorGenuine leafImitation leafPorous surfaceNon-porous surfaceWater-basedOil-basedReady inYou have open time
AquaYESYESYESYES1h60h
CeramicYESYESYESYESYES30min1h
InstacollYESYESYESYESYESYES30min1h, 48h
LefrancYESYESYESYES1h24h
LefrancYESYESYESYESYESYESYES1h3h
MissionYESYESYESYES15min1h
MiniatumYESYESYESYES30min1h
OtariYESYESYESYESYESYESYES4h4-12h
PermacollYESYESYESYESYES1h1h, 48h
Rapid StoneYESYESYESYESYES30min1h
Powder SizeYESYESYESYES30min1h
SigncollYESYESYESYES30min4-12h
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