New Toy Update

[Chippygeoff]

The first time I tried the new polishing machine was a bit of a disaster. Like most people I hate reading instructions and to me it just appeared to be a matter of common sense. I had ten items waiting to be polished. I polished all ten in one go using the 3 applications of polishing compounds on 3 different wheels. the end result was a very poor shine and the wood looking patchy. I had also forgotten to dress the wheels with a piece of course abrasive held on a piece of wood against the wheels so after polishing ten items I was horrified when I passed the mirror in the hallway and I looked like father Christmas with white hair and a white face.

Since then I have had loads of advice from some of the members and in particular I would like to thank Chas the moderator, I clearly see where I went wrong now. Prior to polishing I had dipped the ten items into my teak oil tank and only allowed 24 hours before polishing and with most oils they need a week. This has never been a problem when using wax polish finish after leaving for 24 hours. I now know that i should have used cellulose sanding sealer instead of the oil as using the polisher can be done very soon after treating with sanding sealer, not only does the sealer highlight the grain and colour in the wood it also provides a good base for a superior finish. I am cracking on making a pile of stuff at the moment and hope to be using the poilisher for the second time in a couple of days and I know I am going to be very pleased with the results. Thanks again to everyone who supplied articles and advice. Much appreciated.

 

[Claymore]

...........

 

[CHJ]

.....
Do you have to put much pressure on the polishing wheels? or would that burn the surface?
Brian

Post hijack:-

No great pressure, remember that the abrasive in the wax base is a cutting media, it needs to cut not produce excessive friction, just enough pressure to feel a little warmth in the wood as it passes through the hand.

If you have to apply a lot of pressure or take a long while to get a smooth result then something is not correct in preparation.

You don't want to cut right through the sealer finish back to bare the wood.


If you use shellac be very gentle and avoid heat that could melt the shellac.


(see polishing pamphlets on my site)