Suggestions on removing finish discoloration?

[benjaminh]

I currently have an Edison Home Model B in the shop. Generally, the finish is in good condition, but on the back of the lid, there is one area of a whitish discoloration. I've posted pictures below, which show the lid after one round of Gojo, which had seemingly no effect on the discoloration. I'd rather not have to refinish, as the rest of the case is in good condition.

Any suggestions as to how to remove that discoloration?

[Oceangoer1]

Looks to me like heat damage to the shellac or excessive UV exposure. It might have been sitting in a window for a long time.

If that's what it is, I've had luck using denatured alcohol to remove some of the damaged shellac and then patching up the holes (I'd use amber shellac to match the aged finish. I used clear shellac once, and it was obvious I had done a repair)

-Connor

[hearsedriver]

Some Howards walnut or oak restor-a-finish would go a long way to improving the look of that cabinet. Might need to use some 0000 steel wool to work it in. Follow that with amber shellac. I might try the shellac first to see if it brings the color back though. If it does, juts build up enough of it to match the sheen on the rest of the cabinet.
People either love or hate the Howards but, I have had excellent results with it. As far as shellac is concerned, I dont mess with the flakes anymore. I just buy a can of Bullseye amber and mix it 50/50 with denatured alcohol in a jar. Makes a very substantial finish. you can add aniline dye to it to make it even darker if needed.

[benjaminh]

Thanks guys! I was thinking that this was some mildew-like substance on the finish, not a discoloration of the shellac itself. I decided to take your advice (reamalgamation), though, and the discoloration disappeared completely. Thanks for the excellent advice!

Benjamin