shellac colors

[Haggis]

Would it be best to choose darker shellac on the back and brighter on the top, or should I use bright shellac on both sides?

[johnnparchem]

Would it be best to choose darker shellac on the back and brighter on the top, or should I use bright shellac on both sides?

I use amber or all sides. The amber is "bright" on a spruce top but really helps to darken the back and sides.

I have seen garnet shellac used for the back and sides. It really darkens them. I think it depends on what you want. If you use two different shades of shellac, you really need to be careful where they meet. Taping one side or the other depending on the part you are working on.