Originally Posted by wschruba

Don't throw it out! Pour it into a larger can with at least 1/2 the volume empty, then put it on the stove, and light it on fire (yes, on fire!). Using an oven mitt/pot holder, swirl occasionally, until it thickens and begins to smell like caramel apples. Snuff with a tight metal lid, and allow to cool. Pour into an airtight vessel/bottle.

You've just made burnt shellac, which is a low tack adhesive that can be used in woodworking to join things that aren't wood or leather onto your project. Common use would be in lining a box/drawer with paper. The advantage is that it is easy to remove whatever you put on (as far as adhesives go), and is also reasonably easy to remove in conservation/restoration.