Enhance Your Woodworking Projects with 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol: A Safer Alternative for Superior Finishes

Woodworking artisans and hobbyists can significantly benefit from incorporating 200 proof food grade ethanol into their projects. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages of using food grade ethanol as a safe alternative to denatured ethanol in woodworking applications. We will explore its use in raising the grain of wood for a smoother finish and as a solvent for creating custom shellac colors and finishes in fine French polish applications.

A Safer Alternative for Woodworking:

Denatured ethanol contains toxic additives that can pose health and environmental risks. Food grade ethanol, however, offers a safer option for artisans and hobbyists, providing similar benefits without the hazardous side effects associated with denatured ethanol.

Raising the Grain for a Smoother Finish:

200 proof food grade ethanol can be used to raise the grain of wood before final sanding, ensuring a smoother finish. Simply dampen a cloth with the alcohol and wipe it over the surface of the wood. The ethanol will cause the wood fibers to swell, revealing any imperfections. After the ethanol has dried, sand the surface to achieve a smooth and consistent finish.

Creating Custom Shellac Colors and Finishes:

Shellac, made from lac beetle flakes, is a traditional finish used in fine French polish applications. 200 proof food grade ethanol can be used as a solvent to create custom shellac colors and finishes.

To make your own shellac, follow these simple steps:

1. Weigh out the desired amount of lac beetle flakes.
2. Pour an equal weight of 200 proof food grade ethanol into a glass jar.
3. Add the lac beetle flakes to the ethanol, stirring gently to ensure they are fully submerged.
4. Seal the jar and allow the mixture to sit for at least 24 hours, occasionally shaking the jar to help dissolve the flakes.
5. Once the flakes are fully dissolved, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids.

Are you ready to elevate your woodworking projects with a safer and more effective alternative to denatured alcohol? Purchase Culinary Solvent's 200 proof food grade ethanol for your next woodworking or French polish project and experience the benefits for yourself.