Hi, thanks for the detailed advise. I'm starting to learn enough so at least I can ask pertenent questions. The "test" piece is actually a clock, with 1/4 inch strips of mohogany on the side kind of like a wood strip boat. I used z-poxy mainly to fill any gaps in the strips, and also just to try it as a grain filler prior to french polishing. I have a couple of questions. I used zinnser amber shellac as a wash coat, and planned to use it for everything, but it was very thick sticky compared to what I used in the past. ( Zinser seal coat). I started to body with the amber shellac, but had to switch back to the seal coat. Then everything started work nicely. (Nice gliding and a nice trail.) I have to assume that you guys mix your own, is that the way to go?
Second question; Am I right in assuming that grain filling with pumice is grabbing dust created by "sanding" with the pumice, then forming a paste of dust, pumice, and shellac from the wash coat, and forcing it into the pores? My last attempt at grain filling with pumace got me 95% there, but the last 5% still eludes me. I'm getting a spectacular finish, but not perfect. Thanks