How To Polish Metal - Basic Instructions

  1. Choose the most applicable buffing compound depending on the work surface material to be polished. Start with the coarsest applicable compound. See our polishing compound and jewelers rouge chart.
  2. Apply polishing compound sparingly to the face of a revolving buffing wheel. Repeat application of compound as needed during the buffing and polishing operations.
  3. Use only slight pressure in applying the revolving buff to the work surface, thereby allowing the buffing wheel and the polishing compound to do the work.
  4. If after polishing the work surface is still dull, it will be necessary to repeat the operation following up with a finer suitable compound.
  5. Before changing from one buffing compound to another "rake" buffing wheel thoroughly with a sharp tool to remove previous compound. Better yet, keep a different buffing wheel for each compound.
  6. Beautiful finishes can be obtained with the finest applicable polishing compound applied to a single stitch buffing wheel, felt wheel, or felt bob.
  7. When work has been completed the working surface can be washed in warm soapy water to remove any excess buffing compound or dirt which may have accumulated. Dry with a soft wool cloth or chamois. The high luster obtained from buffing can be protected from future oxidation by the proper application of a clear metal lacquer.