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New woodworkPreparing the surface of new woodwork and polishing it are generally carried out in clearly defined stages, in the following sequence :
Both new and old work should, as far as possible, be dismantled, handles and other obstructions removed. SandingCracks and nail holes may be stopped or filled with plastic wood, which hardens so rapidly that the surface may be sanded within a few hours. Always rub in the direction of the grain, using a flat block of cork inside the sandpaper. Any rust or ink stains have to be bleached out by one or more applications of an oxalic acid bleach or a commercial wood bleach. StainingStaining and filling the grain should be carried out according to the directions given in the section on Painting.
Oiling inThis operation entails a sparing application of linseed oil to check excessive porosity of the dry filler. Use a clean rubber, made with flannel and calico, for the purpose. Bodying upBodying up is mainly concerned with building up the body or thickness of the shellac and with producing a smooth, level surface. The first few coats of polish may be applied with a brush, the stock polish being thinned with an equal amount of denatured alcohol. Always allow time for the hardening of each coat and sandpaper, whenever necessary, between coats. Use No. 00 sandpaper. The rubber, a piece of flannel, wrapped in two layers of calico, is employed for all later coats. Apply half-strength polish at intervals to the unused side of the flannel, unwrapping the outer layers to do so. The polish can thus penetrate slowly and evenly to the face of the rubber, keeping it in a semi-dry condition. Move the rubber in a series of overlapping circles across the surface. Prevent any tendency to "stick" by adding a very small quantity of linseed oil to the face of the rubber. The best method of doing this is to allow one drop of oil to fall on the tip of the face of the pad so as to make an even distribution. This procedure should not be resorted to if it can be avoided, as an oily sheen will soften the brilliance of the finished surface. Spiriting offA separate rubber, charged with quarter-strength polish and applied in long strokes following the direction of the grain, should remove any rubber marks and produce a uniform gloss. Finish the work with a clean rubber barely moistened with alcohol. Old surfacesOld surfaces are prepared by washing with a warm solution of washing soda and rinsing with clean water. Repair small defects with plastic wood and touch up with coloured polish. Body up the surface with a rubber, using slightly coloured polish to restore the richness of hue.
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