This is the first ime I ever worked with aluminum ans an art metal. I used an angle grinded to groove the piece (the first and only time, I have since switched to a pencil grinder - if you don't have one get one). The finish is ink and gold flake. I really enjoy using ink as a finish because it allows the texture of the piece to come through. If you use ink in a functional piece you must seal it This piece was made almost 2 years ago and has weathered many gigs since.