I went to a wood working place and bought flakes the first time, but mixed it so it was a little thin. It still worked fine. Now they don't carry flakes as apparently the lac beetle is in short supply. I use Zinsser in a small can and, for my tastes, mix about 1/3 clear with 2/3 amber. I used Tressostar Yellow cloth tape with shellac and came close to Honey color. Very nice.