Brushed steel effect?

[feef]

I've got a nice brushed steel clock surround in my MX5, and I'd like to replicate that on the 'tombstone'/center console.

I've tried a vinyl wrap but none of the vinyl I can find are shiny enough, and look more like just a textured silver. Also, some of the shapes are complex enough that it's near impossible to get the vinyl to stay put completely (although I recognise that as a relative novice, it could be down to skill)

Anyway... I've seen the Hydrochrome painting system which leaves a chrome/mirror effect finish and was wondering if there would be ANY way to give that a brushed effect at any point in the process?

You can see the clock surround below, to get an idea of what I'm looking for



So.. anyone got any ideas of how to get something that is comparable in finish? Short of fabricating one out of steel of course

[7even]

Have you tried Hydrographics? (water transfer)
Or you could stick with the wrap and lacquer it?

[TallPaul]

You could probably get it water transferred and lacquered, then scuff it with Scotchbrite to try and replicate brushed steel.

[AlmostUseful]

You can do a brushed steel finish effect using a scotchbrite pad and a hard edge.

Basically you spray it a silver that matches the finish your want, and then lightly brush the silver with your pad in 1 direction only, guided by the hard edge.

Then lacquer it, probably even matte lacquer it.
Jobs a goodun

[feef]

Lots of good tips and ideas. I think I'll try a few and see which looks best.

[shoehorn]

http://www.topmiata.com/shop/tombstone-and-gear-su...

[feef]

shoehorn said:

http://www.topmiata.com/shop/tombstone-and-gear-su...

That looks like the Jass Performance set.

It really is just a surround, tho, so doesn't extend to the switches and heater controls