What is a pound cut of shellac?

A pound cut is the traditional way of specifying shellac concentration. A 2-pound cut means 2 pounds of shellac flakes dissolved in 1 US gallon of denatured alcohol. In metric, this is approximately 240g per litre of methylated spirit.

Which pound cut should I use?

Use a 1-pound cut as a sealer or wash coat. Use a 2-pound cut for general French polishing and brushing. A 3-pound cut is suitable for padding on thick coats quickly. Most traditional French polishing uses 2-pound cut.

How long do shellac flakes take to dissolve?

Shellac flakes typically dissolve in methylated spirit within 24 hours with occasional stirring. Crushed or ground shellac dissolves faster. Strain through a fine mesh or muslin before use to remove any undissolved particles.

Where can I buy shellac flakes in the UK?

Shellac flakes are available from specialist woodworking suppliers such as Fiddes, Chestnut Products, and Mylands. Online retailers including Amazon, Axminster Tools and Rutlands also stock various grades. Expect to pay around 30-40 pounds per kilogram.

WoodCalcs

Shellac Calculator — French Polish Ratios

Calculate shellac flake and methylated spirit ratios for French polishing, sealing and finishing.

Pound Cut

Concentration (1-3 is typical)

Volume Needed

Methylated spirit (solvent) volume — finished mix is ~15-20% larger as flakes dissolve

Shellac TypeColour and wax content

Application MethodAffects application guidance

How We Calculate This

A pound cut uses the ratio of pounds of shellac per US gallon of solvent.

Metric conversion

1 pound cut = 120g of shellac flakes per litre of methylated spirit. The volume you enter is the volume of methylated spirit (solvent) — as the flakes dissolve they displace volume, so the finished mixed shellac is roughly 15-20% larger than the spirit volume for a 2-pound cut.

Flakes (g) = Pound cut x 120 x Spirit volume (litres)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify measurements and material quantities before cutting or purchasing.