Bad shellac?

Bad shellac? · 02-02-2009, 07:26 AM

Found this on another forum.

Have any of you had this problem (I have).

"I've had shellac that would not dissolve even after being ground. Unground, the flakes should dissolve in 24 hours, 48 absolute max. . . Don't accept such advice or shellac that results in that situation (doesn't disolve completely). Fresh shellac dissolves very readily and leaves absolutely no residue, even if mixed to a high concentration. If there is a gummy residue in liquid form, the shellac will never properly harden, even if you use the clear portion and discard the gummy residue."

PChristy · 02-02-2009, 08:19 AM

Thanks Pete for this info

I have not used Shellac alot and when I do it is in the rattle can - That is probably not the best but it is ok for what I do

DaveO · 02-02-2009, 06:26 PM

Yep, shellac goes bad. It will store for a long time in the flake form, but that is not indefinite. Once disolved in alcohol it has even less of a shelf life.
This also goes for the canned shellac like Zinnsers. The cans have an "made-on" date and shouldn't be used if more than 3 years old.

Dave

sawman · 02-02-2009, 08:16 PM

I just mixed some dewaxed orange shellac, small amount (8oz). It took two days for the flakes to dissolve and should be good for 6 months. I put the date on the jar and if close to six months I will test it to see if it will harden prior to using.
I prefer mixing my own but the lure of the shaky-can can tempt you.

Later,
Albert

froglips · 02-04-2009, 06:13 PM

bad bad shellac. (I should've named my dog shellac).

I'll second dave's comments on the premixed cans. I had one that was about 4 years and it was worthless. Not to mention really hard to remove. It goes on tackey and never dries then is a bugger to remove.

Also, on the flakes, makes sure they aren't exposed to high heat or direct sunlight. Those will also ruin flakes making them another expensive lesson is something or other.

Jim

Gofor · 02-04-2009, 07:35 PM

Originally Posted by DaveO

Yep, shellac goes bad. It will store for a long time in the flake form, but that is not indefinite. Once disolved in alcohol it has even less of a shelf life.
This also goes for the canned shellac like Zinnsers. The cans have an "made-on" date and shouldn't be used if more than 3 years old.

Dave

Thanks for that info!! I was going to buy some at Lowe's last week, but noticed they were 5 months old. I did not buy because I thought the shelf-life was 6 months. Guess I will go back and get some, now,

(A toast to you, Sir)

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