Replies

1. 
   hen0232 | Jan 31, 2006 04:13am | #1

   Try Toothpaste.

1. 
   saulgood | Feb 01, 2006 12:33am | #6

   Toothpaste, I like it. But I'd have to test several brands because they all have different abrasive qualities. I'd heard that certain toothpastes have been banned in prisons because they can be used with floss or string to cut through bars (takes a long time, but, hey...)

2. 
   SteveSchoene | Jan 31, 2006 02:32pm | #2

   So what is wrong with pumice?  It should be available at any decent paint store and isn't very expensive. A little will last a very long time. For a satin finish the 4f (finer) grit is good.   Rubbing compounds from the nearest auto supply store will also work well. 

   Rottenstone will bring the finish to nearly full gloss, so if satin is your goal you won't need this. 

3. 
   BossCrunk | Jan 31, 2006 02:56pm | #3

   Saul, just order some pumice and rottenstone off the internet.

4. 
   Floss | Jan 31, 2006 04:54pm | #4

   saulgood,

   Pumice would be cheaper than toothpaste. I pay about 2 bucks for a 1 pound carton of pumice or rottenstone. If you are really looking to cut the sheen use 00 steel wool and 2f or 3f pumice lubricated with mineral oil. If you want a moderate shine then use 0000 steel wool and 4f pumice with mineral oil.

   J.P.

   http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com
1. 
   saulgood | Feb 01, 2006 12:28am | #5

   Okay, I'll go get some pumice. It's not the money, BTW, I was just feeling lazy and procrastinating. Rather than go to a store that has it, I was just curious to see if there was a solution in my cupboard.

   I got the idea because the grain filler I made from black pigment, ready-mixed joint compound and Floetrol (paint additive) had a pretty good dulling/polishing effect on the sealer coat of shellac after I let it dry on the surface and buffed it off with a piece of burlap. It occured to me that there must be other things like that, and I was wondering if anyone had tried something less conventional.

   Thanks, though, I think I'll go with the 000 and 3f for my final step.

1. 
   Floss | Feb 01, 2006 01:56am | #7

   Don't forget the oil.J.P.http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com

2. 
   tangomike | Feb 01, 2006 02:47am | #8

   There's this thing called the "Internet" where people can buy goods through storefronts called "online merchants". Really, you should check it out because it's perfect for people like you and me... never want to leave the house types :)http://www.homesteadfinishing.com