I believe I posted this a while back, but some woman gave our club a
collection of shells she had gotten in Panama about 30 years ago.  I was
thrilled until I opened up the bags, and every one had been dipped in
shellac.  They all had this awful tan color.

I soaked them in clorox and most of the shallac came off, except on the big
cones and conchs.  I picked a good bit of it off which a dental pick, but
sure don't recommend anyone putting shellac on shells.  In my opinion, it
ruins them.

Carol
-----Original Message-----
From: Betty Jean Piech <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Sunday, October 31, 1999 9:59 AM
Subject: Hank's One-Shell Collection


>Dear Hank, Ferreter,  Art and Paul:
>
>There is nothing wrong with Hank's saying he has a one-shell collection.
>Haven't any of you ever  heard of  "Poetic license"?   Art uses it
>frequently.  It is a good way of accentuating something by saying or
>writing what is obviously incorrect.
>
>And no one commented on Hank's question regarding using shellac on shells..
> I have been told it should never be used (and I have not). but just out
>curiosity have often wondered why.
>
>Betty Jean, The Tall One