The following suggestion is made by way of caution in reference to the disposal of oily rags and waste made in the various processes of finishing.  These articles are regarded as very dangerous, and are frequently the cause of much controversy between insurance companies and parties who are insured.  The best way to dispose of this waste is to put it into the stove and burn it as fast as it is produced.  If this rule is strictly adhered to there will be no danger of fire from this source.  All liquid stock should be kept in close cans or barrels, and as far from the fire as possible.

CHAPTER VIII.

ENAMELLING.

The process of enamelling in oil varnishes as applied to furniture must be understood as a smooth, glossy surface of various colours produced by bodies of paint and varnish skilfully rubbed down, and prepared in a peculiar way so as to produce a surface equal to French polish.  Ornament can be added by gilding, etc., after the polished surface is finished.

We will begin with the white or light-tinted enamel.  The same process must be pursued for any colour, the only difference being in the selection of the materials for the tint required to be produced.

It should be observed that enamelling requires the exercise of the greatest care, and will not bear hurrying.  Each coat must be allowed sufficient time for the hardening, and the rubbing down must be patiently and gently done; heavy pressure will completely spoil the work.

=Materials.=—­The materials used for the purpose above named are:  white lead ground in turpentine and the best white lead in oil; a clear, quick, and hard-drying varnish, such as the best copal, or the varnishes for enamel manufactured by Mr. W. Urquhart, 327, Edgware Road, W.; or white coburg and white enamel varnish, ground and lump pumice-stone, or putty-powder, great care being taken in the selection of the pumice-stone, as the slightest particle of grit will spoil the surface; and rotten-stone, used either with water or oil.

=Tools.=—­The tools required are several flat wooden blocks, of various sizes and forms, suitable for inserting into corners and for mouldings—­these must be covered with felt on the side you intend to use, the felt best adapted for the purpose being the white felt, from a quarter to half an inch in thickness, which can be obtained of Messrs. Thomas Wallis & Co., Holborn Circus, or at the woollen warehouses; two or three bosses (made similar to polish rubbers) of cotton-wool, and covered with silk (an old silk handkerchief makes capital coverings); wash or chamois leather, and a good sponge.