From:
Don Dougan <dondougan@zzzzzzzz>
Date:
Fri, 6 Jun 2003 23:16:45 -0400
Subject:
smoothing marble
Justin;
Quoted text begins.RE: refining Portoro marble
End of quote.
I know you don't want to hear it, but ? the most important tool is
patience (used with a good lubrication of elbow grease).
Fine (new, sharp, and fine-cutting) rasps and rifflers, pieces of
(silicon carbide) sandpaper glued to shaped pieces of wood, and
sequential rubbing stones all worked for me years ago ? before diamond
pads ever came on the on the market. Of course, diamond pads DO cut
FASTER than silicon carbide . . . they are just more EXPENSIVE. Now I
also use diamond pads, but I also use the appropriate power tool out of
the selection I have judiciously acquired over the years. Even so, there
are times when the above-mentioned hand working methods are the most
economical and practical solution.
Everything is a trade-off. If the material is more durable it will be
harder and more time-consuming (or more expensive) to fashion into form.
Faster work means either less durability, less control, or more expense.
There is no secret formula except perseverence and patience. All you
have to do is decide whether or not it is worth it to you.
PS - if you think Portoro marble is hard, try some Tennessee Imperial
black marble -- your fine files won't touch it ? they just skate over the
surface. Abrasives are the only option to refine and smooth the
surface. And granite, should you choose to work it, is even more
intractable.
Good Carving to you'
Don Dougan
http://www.dondougan.com
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