Fine Woodworking

John Coffey

For over thirty years John Coffey has been repairing, finishing and preserving wooden objects as well as making one-of-a-kind furniture. He specializes in French polish—the application of shellac using a pad—creating a thin finish that shows wood to its best advantage.

French Polishing: How to Tackle Carved Details

December 4, 2019

French polishing is often associated with tabletops, but the technique was used on carvings and other fine details. In this video you'll learn a pro's methods for French polishing carved elements.
French Polishing: How to Build Up the Finish

November 26, 2019

The final step of the French polish is call the second polish. The process involves filling the grain, and then bodying, or building up a thin film of finish to achieve a classic high-gloss look.
French Polishing: Filling the Pores, Part 3

November 19, 2019

The initial step in French polishing, called the first polish, is filling the open pores of the wood with shellac, pumice, and good old fashioned elbow grease.
French Polishing: Filling the Pores, Part 2

November 19, 2019

The initial step in French polishing, called the first polish, is filling the open pores of the wood with shellac, pumice, and good old fashioned elbow grease.
French Polishing: Filling the Pores, Part 1

November 19, 2019

The initial step in French polishing, called the first polish, is filling the open pores of the wood with shellac, pumice, and good old fashioned elbow grease.
What is French Polishing?

November 12, 2019

Finishing expert and woodworker John Coffey gives an introduction to shellac, discussing the different types, how to mix it, and how to apply it to create a long-lasting, beautiful French polish finish.