Traditional French Polishing
French polishing has been around since the 15th century but only gained a broad appeal in the Victorian era when it was used to finish fine wooden furniture and musical instruments. This timeless wood finishing technique results in a high gloss finish with a deep rich colour. French polishing consists of applying several fine coats of shellac thinned in alcohol, using a rubbing pad anointed with oil.
Boyles french polishers have been experts in this field since 1994
French polishing can be most obviously noticed around the home on antique furniture and musical instruments such as pianos, cellos and violins. They respond beautifully to the charming finish that Traditional French polishing provides.
The French polishing process is best suited to darker woods with a fine grain such as Rosewood, Walnut, and Mahogany. Oak and Pine, and other wood varieties with a coarse grain respond better to oil and wax-based finishing techniques. Here at Boyles French Polishers we are experts in all methods necessary to achieve your desired result.
The finish that French polishing achieves cannot be matched by lacquers and varnishes and if damage occurs to the polished surface it can be easily rectified. The process creates very little dust and Shellac is a natural, non-toxic substance so there are no unpleasant smells which means most French polishing jobs can be carried out without residents having to leave their home.