Heather Kay
Western Thunderer
I'm currently working through a 2251 0-6-0 build. The client wants the finished model in "museum quality", and with the various GWR appurtenances polished. Leaving aside the original loco probably never had a shiny anything, let alone appurtenances, I spent a happy half hour with fine files, sanding sticks and polishing wheels going over the safety valve bonnet and chimney cap.
![image.jpeg image.jpeg](https://www.westernthunder.co.uk/data/attachments/57/57745-ae517255e41e689ef387b47cdc30a87c.jpg)
I ended up with these, and I'm quite pleased with the finish, if I do say so myself. The chimney is actually bronze, but polishes up to a nice coppery colour.
These objects will probably be the last things fitted to the model, and I expect they will take on a dullness before that happens. The question is, then, what is the best method of lacquering or varnishing the shiny things so they will not tarnish over time?
![image.jpeg image.jpeg](https://www.westernthunder.co.uk/data/attachments/57/57745-ae517255e41e689ef387b47cdc30a87c.jpg)
I ended up with these, and I'm quite pleased with the finish, if I do say so myself. The chimney is actually bronze, but polishes up to a nice coppery colour.
These objects will probably be the last things fitted to the model, and I expect they will take on a dullness before that happens. The question is, then, what is the best method of lacquering or varnishing the shiny things so they will not tarnish over time?