Shellac is an alcohol based sealing material derived from the shell of the Lac Beetle. Most shellac will come in a premixed container and be labelled Clear, Amber, or Orange. Shellac can also be custom mixed by combining raw shellac resin, which comes in a large block, with Denatured alcohol. Varying the amount and color of resin will alter the final color and thickness of the finish. Shellac is often used as a 'Sanding Sealer' on raw, porous wood. Shellac also acts as a stain barrier or an excellent primer of stained surfaces, it is present in many commercially available stain cover treatments. Shellac is also a US FDA approved food coating and is used on many candies to give them a shine and to help preserve moisture.
A Female Lac Beetle:
Raw shellac Resin:
Premixed commercially available Shellac:
Not frequently used in the theatre, as other finishes such as polyurethane, produce better, easier, and less-costly results.
A Female Lac Beetle:
Raw shellac Resin:
Premixed commercially available Shellac:
Not frequently used in the theatre, as other finishes such as polyurethane, produce better, easier, and less-costly results.