Scratches on PMC

[jools02]

Hi there, I wonder if anyone can help. I've made about 100 PMC fingerprint charms for Christmas orders and haven't been doing it for very long. My pieces turn out beautifully, however, most of them have light scratches all over them even after vigorous polishing. Whatever I try I just can't get of them! It seems to be happening at the dry clay stage when I sand them down. I use sanding pads around the edges and over the surfaces (bar the fingerprint and engraving) - I think this is what's causing it because I can see the scratches on the surface after I've sanded. Its definitely not my burnisher. The only other thing it could possibly be is either the soft brass brush which I use on the piece after firing, or its happening in the polishing process (I use the graded polishing papers) but I can't see it somehow.

What should I be using to sand the dry PMC? Has anyone else experienced this.

[mizgeorge]

I don't work with art clay very often, but my standard answer to ALL polishing problems is micromesh, and I think it would be the same for this one!

[The Dragon]

I agree with George, a final finish with a very fine micromesh to even the surface out then a gentle wipe with a miost baby wipe or similar.

Nic may have a few other suggestions but you need to be looking at getting the best possible finish to your piece before you fire it.

Hope this helps

[jools02]

Sounds great! Where can I find it? I've googled it but what grade do I need to use?

[Petal]

Hi Jools,
I got mine from Ebay but the name of the co is called theturnersworkshop as Cookies don't stock it.

9 X PAD VARIETY PACK (2 > Micro Mesh Products > Abrasives

Good luck.

[jools02]

Thanks Jules I'll order some of those! Forgive me for being a complete novice but which grades are supposed to be used on the dry clay? And can these also be used to polish once its been fired?

Sorry for all the questions!

[MuranoSilver]

I use those impregnated rubber burrs from cooksons on my flexshaft.
(Dremels are fine with them too) Use brown then the green (avoiding the print)
Mirror finish by using wenol and a soft cloth
nic x

[wifey1612]

Thanks.. I'll give that a try