The so called ‘cut’ of shellac is best described as the ratio of shellac flakes in relation to denatured alcohol. A 1lb ‘cut’, means 1lb of shellac flakes dissolved in 1 gallon of denatured alcohol. However this is a large quantity for most woodworking shops. Moreover most shops do not own a weighing scale either. Hence a smaller amount can be mixed for a 1lb cut by taking 1oz. of shellac flakes and dissolving it in 1 cup of denatured alcohol. If a 2lb cut is required, simply increase the weight of the shellac flakes to 2oz. For a 3lb cut increase the weight to 3oz and so on for heavier cuts. Since a cup holds 8 oz, divide the cup into eight equal parts for measuring 1 oz. now you don’t need a weighing scale, only a cup from your kitchen.