If you're working on a larger project I recommend a microfiber roller. In addition to preventing bleed through, BIN Shellac sticks to any surface without sanding. It can be used inside or for spot-priming outside and it can also be used under-or-over any chalk, milk, latex or oil based paint. It dries really fast, too.
If I was to roll shellac (or most any similar coating) I'd use a 1/4'' mohair roller cover. Shellac dries fast so I doubt any defects or orange peel caused by the roller would lay down.
Apply with a natural or synthetic (nylon, polyester or blend) bristle brush, roller, or airless sprayer. Follow manufacturer's instructions when using spray equipment. For airless spraying use a 0.011"-0.013” tip at 800 to 1200 psi. If a conventional sprayer is used, spray at 45-55 psi.
The ``best'' brush for shellac is an artist's taklon brush. However, they are expensive and relatively small. But, they do the best job of flowing out shellac when you know the proper techniques for applying shellac. Second best is a good, top quality natural fiber brush.
Use a nylon, polyester or synthetic roller. Do not dilute.
Best results are achieved by roller application – Use a short pile (up to 5mm) mohair or microfibre roller.
Paints and primers with glossier sheens, like enamels, are most compatible with woven roller covers that shed less lint and deliver smoother finishes. Oil- or water-based paints are best applied using knit roller covers, since they have a more “open” fabric construction to pick up and release greater amounts of paint.
You can go over shellac primer with almost any paint, including most water-based products. Just avoid using cheap retail emulsion and contract matt and you should be fine.
Brush It On
Using long, light strokes, brush the shellac along the grain. Keep it thin and even. Thick coats may seem faster, but trust me—they're trouble waiting to happen.
Purdy® Clearcut® Elite™ paintbrushes offer the ultimate performance and cut-in ability with a stiffer bristle formulation for thicker coatings. Great for Low VOC and latex paints and primers, the ultra-stiff nylon- and polyester-blend bristles that provide clean and straight lines for years.
The drawback to using shellac-based primers is that they are not as versatile as latex or oil and they give off more fumes. They require that you use denatured alcohol to thin them and clean applicators.
The thin, milky liquid can be applied using a brush, medium pile roller or sprayer. Apply the primer liberally, but avoid spilling or dripping. Clean up spills and drips with a wet, soapy cloth or rag and warm as quickly as possible.
Basic Application Techniques
Use a new, clean, good-quality brush, and use only new shellac, thinned to a 1-pound cut. Work on one area at a time. To apply shellac, flow it liberally onto the surface, working in long, smooth strokes along the grain of the wood.
KILZ RESTORATION® Primer (Formerly KILZ MAX) is a new generation water-based primer, sealer and stainblocker offering performance of traditional oil and shellac-based primers. It tackles tough stains including heavy water damage, rust, smoke, nicotine, grease, tannin, ink, pencil, felt marker, pet stains and more.
If spills or drips have dried, use denatured alcohol or ammoniated detergent to soften and remove primer. Wash application tools in a solution of 1 part ammonia and 3 parts water immediately after use. If product has dried on application tools, soak tools overnight in a solution of equal parts ammonia and water.
If you are working on a small project, a foam roller is fine! If you're working on a larger project I recommend a microfiber roller. In addition to preventing bleed through, BIN Shellac sticks to any surface without sanding.
Natural bristle is the best choice for oil-based paints, varnishes, shellac, alkyd enamels, oil stains and oil-based polyurethanes. The highest quality bristles come from mainland China. Experienced, traditional painters will say there's nothing like the finish that a China bristle can provide for oil-based coatings.
However, shellac has its limitations. It is not resistant to heat or alcohol, which can cause it to dissolve or form white rings. Therefore, it's not ideal for surfaces like tabletops that frequently come into contact with hot items or alcohol.
In most cases, only one coat is necessary to prime most surfaces. If excessive absorption occurs over very porous substrates, a second coat may be necessary. Spot priming is recommended only under high-hiding topcoat finishes. For best results, prime entire surface before painting.
What is the difference between shellac and oil based primers? Shellac based primers provide the best stain-blocking and adhesion properties. They adhere to tricky surfaces like glass, creating a surface that the topcoat can adhere to. Without the shellac primer, the topcoat wouldn't adhere to glass for example.
You only need to sand if there are brush strokes or other blemishes. Also you don't need to sand between coats.
For the larger spaces of the wall, apply primer using a 9-inch paint roller with a 3/8 to 1/2-inch high quality roller cover. Fit the moistened roller cover onto your paint roller. Stir and pour the mixed primer into a paint tray. Dip the roller into the primer, making sure it's completely covered.
Walls, Wood, and Metal - Small 1/4″ roller covers or foam rollers will produce the smoothest finish. Light to Medium Textured Surfaces - Microfiber rollers are best. Smooth Surfaces - Use a white woven short nap roller for an ultra fine finish.
Step #3: Understand Nap Thickness
⅜” - ½” (9.5-12.7mm)—For smooth and semi-smooth surfaces like drywall, painted or unpainted walls and ceilings. ¾” - 1” (19.05-25.4mm)—For semi-rough surfaces like wood, stucco or a textured ceiling. 1 ¼” - 1 ½” (31.75-38.1mm)—For rough surfaces like concrete block, brick, or masonry.