Finishing Silver

[leemorris]

Hi
I have flattened some wire and want to make the surface shiny what is the best method of doing this?

Thanks
Lee

[Dennis]

Hi Lee, you left out the crucial bit: the shape. Assuming you have minimal tools, then,
1. if it is straight a silver cloth might be sufficient. If not add some Sylvo but put it down flat on newspaper or one false move might kink it.
2. if it has been made into something, then use a wet soapy brass brush (a suade brass brush would do), or use Silvo on a tooth brush.
3. if this is a hoax, I've had fun; have you? Dennis.

[leemorris]

Hi Dennis
Its a flat long piece about 3mm x 50mm i was planning on twisting it into a spiral to make earrings, was going to have one side matt and the other shiny.
Yes you are correct i don't have any tools at the momment have a few on order but seems like you need that many i will have to build them up over time.
Thanks
Lee

[leemorris]

Forgot to say i wanted the shiny side to have a light hammered texture.

Lee

[Dennis]

Ok Lee,
For the matt side you can use a green Scothchbrite pad like they sell for washing up, or an abrasive sponge block like they sell in Leyland or B&Q for rubbing down. Find some cheap metal to sample the effects. rubbing in an exact straight line works best for me.
For the hammered finish use a ball pein hammer lightly on a hard metal block or surface, but there are side effects you might not want:
1. Different sizes of ball will give different effects.
2. Any marks on the hammer will transfer to the silver.
3. Hammering will curl the strip.
4. The reverse side will also have an altered finish, but to my eyes more attractive.
Polishing as per my first Post. Do lots of experiments and you won't need me, but do not expect instant success because the metal has a will of its own. Dennis.