Originally Posted by
Bennett
I like using shellac. It's not super durable like polyurethane or an oil-based varnish, but I find it easy to work with and "refresh" spots if needed. I like to thin it out a bit with denatured alcohol and wipe it on with lint-free cotton rags. It dries quickly and after many thin coats "melt" together, it is a pretty finish.
Ditto. According to Glenn, it's also authentic to the time period of these old girls. It reallly gives a "deep" finished look...and it's easy to work with.