Home-brew Permalyn

[rp77469]

Yes, use shellac as a base coat since the T&T is linseed oil and doesn't provide much of a moisture barrier. It's not a requirement to seal the stock, but it sure doesn't hurt and will likely add decades to the life of the wood if it is used outdoors a lot.

Don't buy canned shellac, it's no good. Get a good, four-pound cut of shellac flakes and dissolve it in denatured alcohol. Don't store it once mixed and don't use anything but denatured alcohol from the paint store to dissolve it. You can find all kinds of good advice in articles from pros online about how to properly use and apply shellac as a wood sealer, it's very popular with fine furniture makers for a reason. Do some internet searching.

Just wanted to add a comment to make sure you use dewaxed shellac. I get it as prills/buttons and store said prills in the freezer until needed. Does a good job of sealing odors in antique dresser drawers. Dewaxed shellac is compatible with every other type of finish, or so I have read. I do not have much experience with the less refined waxed version, but suspect high levels of wax could cause adhesion issues.

Alcohol will dissolve it, so keep your 'Shine away from the finished item.