Finish for brass trim on folding rule cabinet
Badger1805
| Posted in General Discussion on
In 1998 I made a “folding rule cabinet” having brass trim (this was featured in FWW back in the day – see attached picture). I guess I’m getting tired of using brass polish to clean the brass, especially since the brass polish gets into the carved crevices near the brass, and leaves a white residue that is hard to remove. I’ve now used 0000 steel wool to clean off all residue and also remove a few stains in the brass that I think were possibly caused by floor cleaner splashes at one time years ago.
What topcoat would be best at sealing the brass trim so that I don’t have to polish it – lacquer, right after a final wipe of lacquer thinner? Any other recommendations on topcoats?
Replies
Lacquer is the traditional finish for brass. I don't know if water based poly works on brass, but it could be a low odor alternative.
Thanks, John_C2. I haven't used lacquer for 10 or 15 years but I clearly recall the odor involved. Unfortunately I have a basement shop, right next to the furnace and water heater, so lacquer does concern me a bit, and in WI this time of year, it's not possible to apply finish in the garage.
Does anyone have experience using polyurethane, shellac, or anything else on brass?
I use spray can clear coat from the hardware store but some makes are specifically sold for brass like Mohawk products.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled