How to Polish Damascus Steel

Damascus is a common steel used in sword making.

Damascus is a strong steel with a unique grain pattern that is created during the forging process. Damascus steel is commonly used in swords, knives and jewelry. Damascus is an easy metal to care for. Routine maintenance--including polishing--will ensure the long life of your Damascus steel item. Before polishing the steel, thoroughly clean the item to remove any dust or debris.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• Container
• Leather gloves
• 2 sponges
• Soft towel
• Polishing cloth
• Whitening toothpaste
• Scouring pad
• Soft cloth

Instructions

Clean the Damascus Steel

1. Combine warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid in a container.

2. Equip yourself with a pair of leather gloves if cleaning a sword or knife. The leather gloves will prevent you from accidentally cutting your hands during the cleaning process.

3. Saturate the corner of a sponge with the water and dishwashing liquid mixture.

4. Scrub the steel with the sponge from top to bottom on both sides.

5. Wet a clean sponge with warm water. Rinse the steel with the sponge to wipe away the water/dishwashing liquid.

6. Dry the steel with a soft towel. Do not let the steel air dry. Doing so may lead to rust.

Polish the Damascus Steel

1. Wipe the Damascus steel from top to bottom with a polishing cloth. For blades, polish once every few months.

2. Use a small amount of whitening toothpaste and a scouring pad to polish Damascus steel rings.

3. Polish the blade with soft cloth after you sharpen Damascus steel swords and knife.

References

• Historical Weapons: How to Care and Maintenance Your Sword
• Andrew Nyce Designs: Damascus Stainless Steel Rings
• Turkey Creek Forge: Caring For Your Knife
• Rays Knives: Knife Maintenance