New Pipe Smoker With A Question? Ask an Old Fart

[hotreds]

When I'm wet sanding a black stem with micro mesh, why do I get brown residue? Am I supposed to continue until I don't get any more brown residue? Even if the stem appears black?

[Mister Moo]

Originally Posted by hotreds

When I'm wet sanding a black stem with micro mesh, why do I get brown residue? Am I supposed to continue until I don't get any more brown residue? Even if the stem appears black?

As surface oxidation is cleaned off with light rubbing the stem goes to black; rub out evenly with finer and finer cloth until polished to a wet-glass sheen.

Practice on making a mirror finish on your thumbnail if you want to see how it works. When you're done you can look into it and comb your hair if the light is right.