Two pack polyurethane; rubbing back to a smooth finish

[Bowyer]

Has anyone had any experience with rubbing back Wattyl 7008 to achieve a smooth, flawless finish?
I make bows as a hobby and I need a finish which is flexible and tough enough to withstand knocks without chipping. Wattyl 7008 has these qualities but when I apply it, the finish is glossy but marred with specks of dust and runs etc.. I understand that the PU can be rubbed back with various grades of wet and dry and a cutting compound to achieve a smooth finish. I have also been told that one of the Josco abrasive blocks can be used on 7008 to achieve a smooth glossy finish without sanding marks. Has anyone tried this and succeeded, or tried and failed? :confused:

[Shane Watson]

Automotive refinishers don't have any problems, but they don't usually use what your talking about but the principles are the same....Take an example of what you want to achieve to an automotive refinishing supply company and talk to one of their reps on the subject. If their a good company to deal with they will most likly do ya a demo on what you take in with you.....

[Briantgb]

Hi Norman
I have used 7008 for 30 years, and up until a couple of years ago, Wattyl distributed two products to finish a polishing project. After you had sanded back with 320.400,and 600 grain wet and dry, you would rub out the scratches made by the 600 grain with Wattyl Rubbing Compound, then you would use Wattyl Burnising Spirit to remove the scratches made by the Rubbing Compound to complete the job. I can assure you that when the project was finished no one could tell if it was French Polished or not.
To give you the bad news, Wattyl do not make either of these products anymore, so like you I am at a loss of what to do.
If anyone reading this has any suggestions of alternative Products I would be most appreciative.
My email address is btbobby@bigpond.net.au
Best Regards Brian

[Shane Watson]

wow, nice to see an old thread brought back to life...... ;)