Buffing

[Queso]

Probably the most important tool that I don't own yet is a buffing system. I want to to use TSW for the final step on my pens, and it needs to be buffed out. Would a single step buffing with this do the job? Scroll down to the #2MT arbor and wheels.

http://www.arizonasilhouettes.com/Craft_Supplies_USA_Pen_Kits5.htm

 

[wayneis]

That should work fine. Just ask BB for the wheel for wax. You may want to add the other two wheels though. I have recently been buffing some of my pens and the result is truly amazing. I bought the complete system and I can't get over the result on the acrylics and celuloids.

Wayne

 

[driften]

Or you could make an adapter to put a wool paint roller on the lathe or buy one like I did from Bruce Boone. That works great for me. I just use diffrent sections for diffrent buffing compounds. It makes the biggest diffrence on acrylics but even stabilized pens shine more after buffing.

 

[Queso]

I tried the paint roller idea. It was a great idea, but the roller I used just scratched up my pen. What kind of wool do you have to use?

 

[driften]

I am using the $9 roller from Lowes that is a natural wool material. It has never put any scraches on my stuff.

 

[Queso]

I used the same one. It was a disaster.

 

[Fred in NC]

Very interesting, Queso... I bought the wool roller from Lowe's and it is very soft, and does not scratch at all.

 

[Daniel]

What compound are you using?

 

[Queso]

I didn't. I just tried to buff the pen with the TSW on it.

 

[Fred in NC]

I am using the wool roller to buff with TSW. The wool is extremely soft. I run it at about 3000 RPM. After waiting a couple minutes, I buff the whole pen, metal fittings and all.

The only thing I can think of is that I use the outside of the roller's nap only. In other words, I don't get the pen close to the roller itself. The action is very gentle, and the pen shines like the sun.