Question from Jess Kidd
Hi Debra,
Thanks for a great website – really interesting.
I wonder if you could help me with a query. I have bought a 1940/50s plywood wardrobe from a furniture scheme. They have kindly sanded and prepared it for me to paint with eco paint as my daughter has asthma.
I would think the plywood would have off-gassed by now but could there be a problem from the shellac in terms of formaldehyde or VOCs?
I would be very grateful for your advice.
Debra’s Answer
I agree the plywood would have off-gassed by now.
Real shellac is made from insect bodies and alcohol. The alcohol would be long gone.
Sounds like it’s fine.
