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View Full Version : Steel wool + wax = super shine















Fumbler
21st August 2017, 06:48 PM
A fellow wood worker mentioned 0000 steel wool as a way to bring the shine up. I googled it and it recommends using a wax or oil to help lubricate. I'm a bit miffed as to how this would help bring a shine as I have only ever used steel wool to rub back ready for the next coat. I feel stupid asking really. Can anyone post a picture of an item that has been finished with this method so I can see a result, and I there are any tricks to doing this.

And is there any specific wax I should be using? The finish I have applied is polyeurethene.

thanks

Skew ChiDAMN!!
21st August 2017, 07:26 PM
I thought 0000 grade steel wool was equivalent to around 1000 grit, plus/minus 20%

But according to this site (http://steelwooldirect.com/grades-and-applications/) it's only about 300 - 600 grit.

I guess that if you've only surface finished up to a max. of 480 grit in the first place, then it can improve the overall finish.

I'm not a fan of mixing steel wool and timber at any stage though... small pieces break off and cause discolourment in the finish with age.

Rod Gilbert
21st August 2017, 07:30 PM
Hi,
These are finished in this way clear lacquer then polished with wax and 0000 steel wool. I use Wattle Danish wax or Mirotone furniture wax they are thin waxes and give a beautiful sheen.
Regards Rod.

rob streeper
22nd August 2017, 02:49 AM
If steel isn't acceptable wools in bronze, brass, copper and stainless steel are also available. Bronze is my favorite for de-nibbing varnish.

Fumbler
22nd August 2017, 03:18 AM
Hi,
These are finished in this way clear lacquer then polished with wax and 0000 steel wool. I use Wattle Danish wax or Mirotone furniture wax they are thin waxes and give a beautiful sheen.
Regards Rod.

cheers Rod