[Hammarlund] Filling Engraved Panels

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On 10/16/07, Robert Nickels <W9RAN at oneradio.net> wrote:
> jeremy-ca wrote:
> >  white lead sticks.
> Ruh roh....that'd be lead-based paint...probably the only source
> nowadays would be in China ;-)


Yes, but they only use it on toys and dishes, right?

There is a way to remove the haze from re-lettering a panel, but it's
not for the weak of heart or inexperienced. It involves using the same
type of cloth mentioned above but dampened SLIGHTLY with alcohol (no,
not single malt scotch). This technique wipes away the haze nicely,
but will also wipe away the gloss of the panel and even panel paint if
you do it too zealously. The trick is to loosen only the top 'haze'
layer, and not soften the paint beneath it, including the engraving
(pulling the paint out causes more haze).

Old radio collectors have used this approach to rejuvenate original
finishes on wooden cabinets in cases where the finish isn't gone, just
'dead' looking. You can actually move the sheen layer around and if
you're not careful, remove it entirely.

Practice makes perfect, or at least, gives better results. Test on
some clunkers before attempting this technique on your jems.

~ Todd,  KA1KAQ