Rubbing Out with Automotive Compounds
Do you know that you can use Automotive Compound to rub out shellac, lacquer, varnish, or polyurethane.  These abrasive pastes level the finish faster and leave a higher gloss than traditional pumice and rotterstone.  Use the orange-colored paste (equal to about 1,000 grit) for a satin finish.  For a high gloss, start with orange paste and finish with the white (2,000-grit).  Note that to use automotive paste with open-grained woods, you must fill the pores before applying the finish.  Otherwise, the paste will accumulate in the pores and appear as light-colored flecks all over the surface.