I used alcohol-based aniline dye under a shellac finish. When I applied the shellac the dye became streaked and muddy in appearance. What went wrong and how can I correct it.
- Gary B.
Aniline Dye
Our Expert
The dye was dissolved by the application of the shellac. Most dye is available in a powder form and must be dissolved before use. Dyes are available for mixing with water, oil, or alcohol. When making your selection use a dye that will not be dissolved by the solvent in the top coat. For example, when using shellac, I use a water-based dye to color the wood. Otherwise the alcohol in the shellac will affect the dye.
To repair the problem I suggest that you strip away the shellac and dye with alcohol and 0000 steel wool. Remember to use plenty of ventilation to avoid breathing the fumes from the denatured alcohol.