French Polishing
French Polishing is a generic term used to describe most aspects of wood
finishing. In its true form, French polish is a decorative surface coating
with sufficient workability to become an integral part of the wood. It is this
that makes French polish stand out from other surface coatings, but only if it
is correctly applied. It can, of course, be brushed on, as you would a varnish,
and very good results are achieved by applying four or five coats with a polishing
mop, cutting back between coats and waxing with a fine paste wax. However,
the correct French polishing process creates a much higher shine, which is achieved
by 'rubbing' the polish, using a pad of wadding wrapped in a cotton cloth
and known as a 'rubber'.
The wadding used must be unbleached to retain
its springiness during polishing - cotton wool is not suitable. When used without
a cotton outer, this wadding pad is known as a fad, and in the early stages
of polishing it can be used on its own. However, it is preferable to use a
rubber at all stages as there is less risk of fibres becoming trapped in the polish.
There is nothing difficult about either making or charging a rubber with
polish, as long as you know the right methods. The polish should be poured carefully
into the centre of the opened up fad. Don't apply too much polish as the aim is not to flood the surface. A corked bottle with a groove cut in the cork's side is the traditional container, used since it is perfect for both pouring and initially mixing up the polish; although a clean washing-up liquid bottle would probably do just as well. |
