View Full Version : French Polish and Cloudiness
yankees1
Nov-25-2013, 9:01am
Why do some french polished mandolins result in a cloudiness in the finish with no physical contact from my body on the finish ? I have read that french polish can be fragile and produce this cloudiness over time.
pfox14
Nov-25-2013, 10:22am
Cloudiness is usually an indication of moisture present. What is the environment like? Has to 50% humidity ideally.
David Newton
Nov-25-2013, 1:38pm
I could depend on the method of preparation of the Shellac. Too much wax can lead to cloudiness, but moisture is the main reason.
A French polish finish can be fragile, especially when it is new, but once it is aged a bit it will serve well, but it will never be as tough as lacquer or polyester.
kwerry
Nov-29-2013, 6:43pm
You could also try spiriting off again (or more) sometimes it can be excessive oil left after the polish stage... This would normall happen right after you put the finish on so if this is long after you can ignore me...
KLW