I like to use a mixture of 1/3 shellac (3 lb cut you get in stores) 1/3
boiled linseed oil and 1/3 alcohol (ethanol) Works great as a friction
polish. I mix it myself. I also use the stuff referenced in the previous
posts.

Tom in Howell, NJ

"Andy Dingley" wrote in message
...
On Sun, 22 Jan 2006 22:31:31 GMT, "Dave" wrote:

I saw on the DIY lathe show yesterday where the guy had a small jar with a
mixture of wax and shellac that he dipped a rag into and then applied it
to
a bowl while it was spinning.

Shellac naturally contains wax. Generally for cabinetry you'll want to
avoid this, so what many people (myself included) do with their bulk
shellac is to buy a waxy grade, then let the bottles stand for a weak or
two until there's a thick cloudy layer in the bottom. By pouring off the
top carefully you get dewaxed shellac.

The waxy remainder is still usable shellac, with extra wax in it. I use
this when I want an easily sandable sealer on something where I don't
need a perfect visual finish (it seems to be the acres of plywood
backing on mirror frames these days). I don't know if this would work
as a friction polish for turning, but it would certainly be worth
experimenting.