French polishing is a classic wood finishing technique known for its deep gloss, luxurious feel, and ability to highlight the natural grain of wood like no other method. While it may take time and patience to master, the results are nothing short of breathtaking. At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we use this traditional technique on select antique and high-end pieces — and now we’re sharing our knowledge so you can better understand how it’s done.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply curious about the process behind our professional finishes, here’s a full breakdown of what French polishing involves.

A Brief History of French Polishing

French polishing originated in 18th-century France and became widely popular during the Victorian era. It was the go-to finish for luxury furniture, grand pianos, and decorative woodwork thanks to its mirror-like shine and tactile warmth. While modern lacquers replaced it in mass production, French polishing is still unrivalled in restoring antique furniture or achieving a high-end bespoke finish.

Step 1: Preparation Is Everything

A flawless French polish starts with meticulous surface prep. Here’s what that looks like:

✅ Inspect and Repair

Check the furniture for any loose joints, chips, or damage. Make necessary repairs before beginning.

✅ Strip the Old Finish

Use a paint stripper to remove any existing varnish or lacquer. Once stripped, sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper, always working in the direction of the grain.

✅ Fill Imperfections

Use a fine wood filler to patch holes, dents, or scratches. Let it dry and then sand flush.

✅ Optional: Stain the Wood

If desired, apply a wood stain to enhance colour consistency — particularly helpful if you’re working with faded antique wood.

✅ Seal with Shellac

Apply a coat of shellac-based sanding sealer using a French polishing brush. Once dry, lightly sand and clean the surface.

Step 2: Applying French Polish

The polish itself is a mixture of shellac and alcohol, traditionally applied using a cloth pad (called a rubber).

How to Make a Rubber:

• Use a ball of cotton wool as the core.

• Wrap it tightly in lint-free white cotton.

• It should feel soft, pliable, and secure in your hand.

First Application:

• Charge the rubber with a small amount of shellac polish.

• Apply with light pressure in long, parallel strokes following the wood grain.

• Follow up with circular or figure-eight motions to blend and even the surface.

Repeat this process over several sessions, allowing the shellac to dry between coats. With each pass, you’re slowly building up depth, richness, and clarity.

Step 3: Spiriting Off (Polishing Out)

Once you’ve built up enough layers, it’s time to level and gloss the surface using a technique called spiriting off.

• Prepare a clean rubber charged with methylated spirits.

• Gently sweep over the surface to remove any oil and even out the finish.

• Use confident, overlapping strokes — don’t pause in one spot too long.

This step is delicate. It’s easy to overdo and strip the finish if you’re too aggressive — which is why it’s often best left to professionals like us at J&D Sprayers.

Step 4: Waxing for Protection

Once fully cured, protect the finish by applying beeswax or a high-quality furniture wax.

• Rub on a thin layer with a soft cloth.

• Let it settle.

• Buff to a beautiful, protective sheen.

The wax enhances the depth of shine and helps safeguard the finish from daily wear and tear.

Common French Polishing Issues (and Fixes)

French polishing requires a clean workspace, controlled humidity, and patience. It’s not something to rush — which is why it’s so often admired when done well.

Final Thoughts: Craftsmanship Worth the Time

French polishing isn’t just a method — it’s an art. At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we bring this refined technique into the 21st century, applying it with the respect it deserves while combining it with modern materials when appropriate.

If you’re restoring a period piece, refinishing a family heirloom, or looking for a signature finish no spray system can replicate — French polishing is the gold standard.

📩 Thinking about restoring a wooden piece?
Contact us today to see whether French polishing or one of our professional spray finishes is the right fit.