1) I used Shellac flakes that are intended for French polishing. They are available from the paint section of the hardware shop (E.g. In Australia = Bunnings). Initially I mixed in Talcum powder to "bulk" it up. I later abandoned this.
2) I melted the shellac in the microwave until it started to bubble. (Took about 1.5 minutes in my low powered microwave).
3) I then poured the molten shellac onto different "test" surfaces.
4) To remove the shellac from the surface I poured it onto I used cold water and in one instance I placed it in the freezer.
Photo 1 - Poured into a pyrex glass dish. The resulting shellac surface is like glass. The reflections are venetian blinds covering the window.
http://s14.postimage.org/pz7d2e10x/image.jpg
Photo 2 - A larger blob of shellac poured onto a rougher surface. Doesn't look very interesting.
http://s8.postimage.org/78zal5kd1/image.jpg
Some problems:
-There are too many bubbles just under the surface.
-The surface seems very hard. May be too hard to cut easily.
If anyone can make a recommendation for direct cutting shellac disc formulas please let me know!
WARNING: There are safety hazards. It smells strongly. The shellac when molten can cause burns to the skin...like hot wax. Take appropriate safety precautions. Wear protective equipment etc.
