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Abralon abrasives

Filed under Painting

Despite what varnish manufacturers say in their product literature, great furniture finishes don't come out of a can. Three coats of finish is just the starting point. After that comes rubbing out and polishing, traditionally done with pumice and rottenstone and lots of elbow grease. Abralon abrasive pads offer a shortcut.
abralon.jpg

The wet/dry pads are available in grits from 180 to 4000, with hook and loop backing so they attach to standard random orbit sanders. After the finish dries, start buffing with 600 grit and a little water and keep going with progressively higher grits until you hit 4000. These pads are used to put the high polish on Steinway pianos, and with a bit of practice you can get that kind of finish too - although you'll need to read up on finishing techniques, as there's a bit more to it than I can explain in two paragraphs.

The pads aren't widely available at retailers, but you can find them on the internet. Or call Mirka Abrasives at 800.843.3904 for local distributers.


Posted by Eric Smith on May 2, 2006 12:15 PM | email to a friend

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