Strange - I've never had shellac go bad. I've been using the Zinsser brand. I prefer it to lacquer for grain and minor ding filling as it seems to shrink less over time. Then I use Deft Sanding Sealer over that.
Speaking of which, I made some good progress on the cabinet this weekend. The weather has been very cooperative - 70F today.
After the sanding sealer, I used a couple light coats of Mohawk Van Dyke Walnut on the old veneer and three coats on the new veneer which was a little lighter.
Then 3 coats of Deft Gloss. Once that cures, I'll sand it lightly and put on another 3 coats.
I also polished up the rest of the lower portion of the control panel.
I'm not sure about the burnished top section though. I tried some Simichrome on it and it does look better, but it's a little splotchy
