John, I agree with you that the tradition methods of French polishing are tricky and it is very hard to get a high polish finish. However, I could have you producing a glass-like finish in a day with the Konig special French polish. This polish takes all the headaches out of the process. It looks like there is a good chance I will be at the 2012 convention to do a workshop on this. On a really orange peeled old piano, I first sand it down with 320 and then 400 wet or dry paper using a soft block and raw linseed or mineral oil lubricant. This levels the finish and makes it easier to get a high gloss. It is possible to use French polish alone with no sanding on such a finish. It just takes a lot more time and effort and a number of sessions. Douglas Gregg Classic Piano Doc Southold, NY
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