Will shellac be compatible with oil-based stain?

[andy2]

I will be putting on some shellac on a pair of speaker box tomorrow. If you have any objections, please speak up or forever hold your peace

[Bob Barkto]

Usualy ok with a moderate amount of care in application.
Test a sample if you can.

If I color wood I prefer dyes under shellac.
I'd recommend spraying the shellac for best results over pigmented oil stain.

What brand/type of oil stain?
How are you applying the shellac?

When brushing or padding occasionaly the shellac can pick up some of the pigment. This can result in a muddy finish.

After a day or more of drying time wipe the stained surface well with a clean cotton cloth until it stops picking up loose pigment.

Apply the first few coats of shellac very lightly/gently so as not disturb the stain too much.

Once you get some build you should be ok.

Just remember shellac is reactive, subsequent coats will melt previously applied. Avoid brushing or rubbing too much to keep from burning through.

Hope this was helpful.