shellac in flakes
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the female lac bug (kerria lacca) on trees in the forests of India and Thailand. After the raw lac has been harvested, it is processed to obtain different colors and qualities. Shellac is sold as dry flakes that need to be dissolved in order to be used. Even though any anhydrous alcohol will dissolve shellac ethanol is generally used.
Liquid shellac can be used as a brush-on colorant, food glaze, for manicures and wood finishes. Shellac has perhaps the most functions of all the natural resins, it acts as a tough natural primer, sanding sealant, tannin-blocker, odor-blocker, stain, and high-gloss varnish.