For white-enamelling the surface of new wood, the foundation is built up with gilders' washed whiting and patent or parchment size; three coats at most should prove sufficient. This is smoothed down with worn glasspaper. At least four coats of white enamel should then lie applied, allowing each coat time to dry before applying the next. A superior finish can be obtained by French polishing the surface, using transparent polish with or without the addition of flake white, as the undercoat-ing may require. If the furniture has previously been enamelled, it is not necessary to remove the old enamel right down to the wood. The surface should be freed from grease by thoroughly washing with warm water in which a small teacupful of washing soda has been dissolved. A little pumice powder will prove beneficial if the furniture is very dirty. The whiting and size may be omitted, and the surface built up with two coats of white enamel, as in new work. A suitable enamel can be made by mixing finely crushed flake white in transparent polish; strain through muslin before use.

For a bright finish, mix flake white in best quality white hard varnish.