ArtMetal

Hi, fellow metal artists. I am working on a coffee table design which will consist of stainless steel and brass and I am trying to improve my stainless steel polishing techniques. I am still trying to get a mirror finish but scratching is a problem I am trying to overcome. I am not sure whether it is the abrasives or tools that I am using which is contributing to the problem. I am starting the sanding process with 80 grit because of serious pitting on 8mm 316 S/S plate. The process I use for polishing 316 stainless steel is as follows: • Grit 80 • Grit 100 • Grit 120 • Grit 180 • Grit 240 • 3 stages of scotch bright • 2 stages of cotton wheel and polish (All Grit and Scotch bright stages are performed using a Stayer 7” variable speed rotating sander) Q1. I am interested in feedback from fellow artists who may have any advise to give on my polishing procedure. I have no experience with working with brass, Although am keen to start working with it. Q2. I would like to know about polishing procedures for this material and how it compares to the Stainless steel polishing process. The tarnished effect that brass rapidly obtains is a concern for an artist trying to achieve that polished look. Q3. Can this be overcome with a protective coating such as 2pack, acrylic lacquer or a wax coating of some sort?? All comments appreciated, please note I am in Australia and I may require further communication to appreciate some technical terminology differences. Regards Glen Down under