JM French Polishing is proud to have an extensive client list for both trade and private work across London and Surrey. We not only polish using shellac, oil or wax but can also carry out more involved work such as replacing missing or damaged wood. French Polishing is somewhat unusual, given that the polish is made from a tropical beetle cocoon dissolved in alcohol. The sheen that distinguishes this technique is built up through the application of many layers. A little bit more about other finishes we use: In recent decades, cellulose lacquer has replaced older materials as a finish for wood. It's applied by spraying and, as hand-held sprays can only be used for small items, it is difficult and disruptive to use in the home. Over the years we've learned to brush lacquer, so we can offer this as a finish for woodwork or furniture. Oil is a traditional wood preservative and soaks into the wood to protect it from within. Because it's not really a surface coating but more of an internal membrane, it doesn't get surface damage like peeling or cracks.