Hi Guys,
I was wondering how do you polish the inside of the button lip (i.e. the slit). After cutting the lip with the dremel type cutter, I get a nice "cats eye") slit. However, I find it very difficult to polish it smooth. I've tried sanding with paper bent over, using a ball cutter to try to smooth it out and then buffing. It takes a long time and it is not as good as I'd like it to be. Have you had any more success with other methods?
Progcat@msn.com
Polishing the Lip on Stem Button
There are quite a few other posts detailing airway finishing techniques that you can search through. However, to get you started, the most basic tool that you will need for this is a set of needle files. Depending on the height of your airway at the button, you many need to modify the needle files to help them fit. Some people use other materials and tools as well, but for my money the needle file set is the best. YMMV.
Jeff
Jeff
After using the needle files... I have started using the cheapo popsicle stick type nail files with pretty good results... i hit it against my sanding disk to made a point that fits into the slot
John
www.crosbypipes.com
www.crosbypipes.com
- LexKY_Pipe
- Posts: 875
- Joined: Thu Nov 23, 2006 8:00 pm
- Location: Lexington, Kentucky USA
after the needle file, I take little strips of sandpaper, roll them up, and sand the inside of the airway. It is a little bit of a pain to do, but it gets easier over time. I go through 1200 grit. I also melt some brown tripoli on a pipe cleaner and rub for the final polish.
I'm going to try the nail file. Great tip, John.
I'm going to try the nail file. Great tip, John.
- LexKY_Pipe
- Posts: 875
- Joined: Thu Nov 23, 2006 8:00 pm
- Location: Lexington, Kentucky USA