French Polish 

Much like sharpening a scraper, French polishing often seems like an elusive skill one can struggle for years to master.

A Short Historical Overview

French polish is a method of applying shellac to wood to produce a high-gloss finish with remarkable depth and warmth. Though the technique existed in earlier forms, it became widely recognized and refined in France during the early 19th century, hence the name "French polish."

Origins and Development
The technique has roots in earlier wood finishing practices involving natural resins and oils, but it was in France—especially among cabinetmakers serving the aristocracy and upper classes—that shellac was developed into an art form. By the time of Louis XVI and the Napoleonic era, French polish became the preferred method of finishing luxury furniture.

The Process
French polishing involves:

Dissolving shellac flakes in alcohol to create a thin, workable solution.

Applying it in many thin layers using a soft cloth pad (called a rubber or fad) wrapped in cotton or wool.

Rubbing in consistent, circular or figure-eight motions, often incorporating small amounts of oil to lubricate the process.

This labor-intensive method allows craftsmen to build up a smooth, reflective finish that enhances the natural grain of the wood.

Golden Age
French polishing reached its peak in the 19th century, especially with the rise of furniture styles like:

Victorian in England

Empire and Restoration in France

It was prized by piano manufacturers and luthiers (string instrument makers) for its beauty and ability to allow the wood to resonate, unlike heavier varnishes or lacquers.

Decline and Legacy
By the early 20th century, French polish began to decline due to the development of modern lacquers and spray finishes—which were faster, more durable, and more suited to mass production.

However, French polishing remains revered in traditional woodworking, restoration work, and among artisans seeking the highest aesthetic standards. It's still taught in fine furniture schools and used by master luthiers and restorers.