How to Give Brass a Scratched Finish

Scratch the surface of brass with 300 grit sandpaper.

Brushed brass is the official name for brass that looks like it has a scratched finished look. The surface of the brass has small scratches that appear in a circle pattern or all lines are on the same axis. The scratched surface on the brass is created with a piece of sandpaper. A coat of spray sealer is placed on the finished project to prevent patina from appearing. Patina is a discoloring of the brass surface caused by oxidation. Practice on a small sheet of brass prior to beginning the final project.

Things You'll Need

• 8-inch square 20 gauge brass sheet
• Soft cloth
• 300 grit sandpaper
• Acrylic spray sealer

Instructions

1. Place the 8-inch piece of 20 gauge brass sheet on a flat work surface. Turn the brass sheet so it forms a square on the work surface. Two sides on the horizontal axis and two sides on the vertical axis.

2. Wipe the surface of the brass to remove any dirt particles.

3. Sand from side-to-side across the horizontal axis. Keep the sanding line as straight as possible. The scratch lines will appear uniform creating a straight scratched brass surface.

4. Flip the brass sheet over. Sand from side to side across the horizontal axis using small circular motions. Pay close attention to keeping the circles approximately the same size. Lift the sandpaper after each circle.

5. Tap the brass sheet on the edge to remove all sanding dust. Wipe the front and back of the brass sheet with a soft cloth.

6. Shake the can of acrylic spray sealer 60 seconds. Hold the can approximately 12 inches from the surface. Spray a thin coat of sealer on the surface. Allow the sealer to dry 10 minutes. Repeat the process for a total of three applications on each side of the brass sheeting.