Dye and grain filler

[Stan Calow]

I am planning to spray a dye (either water or alcohol) then use grain filler and a topcoat (Waterlox). The filler wants a coat of sealer (shellac) under it. My concern is that brushed or sprayed shellac will reactivate the dye, and create a mess. I've done a test on some smaller pieces (wood is mahogany), and its been somewhat manageable, but I think it will be a problem over a large flat surface. Any thoughts appreciated.

[Jim Becker]

Stan, I generally use water soluble dye directly on the wood and then seal with wax free shellac, spraying when I can, but I've also brushed on the shellac when necessary. No issues. There's no issue with reactivation unless you drag the color around substantially so the "art of application" for the shellac comes into play if you are using non-spray methods.

[Stan Calow]

OK Jim thanks.