French polishing is one of the oldest and most revered wood finishing techniques in history. Known for its rich, glossy finish and ability to highlight the natural beauty of wood, this traditional method has been used on everything from grand pianos to antique furniture.

But like all finishes, it has its strengths and limitations. Below, we explore the main pros and cons of French polishing to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your next restoration or refinishing project.

✅ Pros of French Polishing

1. Exquisite High-Gloss Finish

French polishing creates a deep, mirror-like shine that enhances the natural grain and colour of wood — especially mahogany, walnut, and rosewood. Its warmth and richness are unrivalled by most modern finishes.

2. Ideal for Antique Furniture

Because of its restorative properties, French polish is perfect for reviving worn, scratched, or faded wood. It can mask light imperfections, restore depth of colour, and enhance the wood’s character — making it a go-to method for restoring valuable antiques.

3. Eco-Friendly and Natural

French polish is made from shellac, a natural resin secreted by the lac beetle. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and free from harsh chemicals, making it a more environmentally conscious choice compared to synthetic finishes.

4. Easy to Repair

One of the biggest advantages is its repairability. If the surface becomes scratched or dull, it can often be spot-treated and re-polished without stripping the entire finish.

5. Enhances Longevity

French polishing penetrates the wood grain rather than just sitting on top, creating a finish that, while thin, can still add structure and prolong the life of the timber when properly maintained.

⚠️ Cons of French Polishing

1. Time-Consuming Process

French polishing is a labour-intensive method requiring multiple thin coats, applied with precise hand motions over several days. It demands patience, skill, and experience to achieve a flawless result.

2. Not Water or Heat Resistant

Shellac finishes are sensitive to water, heat, and alcohol — which means they can easily suffer from ring marks, clouding, or staining. Protective coasters and careful maintenance are essential.

3. Limited Durability for High-Wear Areas

While beautiful, French polish doesn’t offer the same level of resistance as polyurethane or hard lacquer finishes. It’s not ideal for high-traffic surfaces unless you’re prepared for regular touch-ups.

4. Requires Skilled Application

Achieving a perfect French polish is not DIY-friendly. It involves specific techniques such as fadding and spiriting off. Without proper knowledge and practice, it’s easy to end up with an uneven or patchy finish.

🪵 Is French Polishing Right for You?

French polishing is ideal for:

• Restoring high-value antiques

• Enhancing decorative or display pieces

• Projects where traditional craftsmanship is valued

• Surfaces that won’t endure heavy daily use

It may not be suitable if you need a highly durable, water- or heat-resistant finish for kitchen tables, worktops, or commercial settings.

Final Thoughts

French polishing remains a gold standard in wood finishing for good reason. Its elegance, depth, and timeless charm continue to impress furniture lovers and restorers alike. However, it does require expert craftsmanship and ongoing care.

At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we combine traditional techniques like French polishing with modern spray finishing methods to give you the best of both worlds. Whether you’re restoring a family heirloom or refinishing a cherished piece, we can help you choose the perfect finish for long-lasting results.

📞 Need advice or a quote for French polishing?
Get in touch with J&D Sprayers & Makeovers — your local wood restoration experts.