Steel wool + wax = super shine

A fellow wood worker mentioned 0000 steel wool as a way to bring the shine up. I googled it and it recommends using a wax or oil to help lubricate. I'm a bit miffed as to how this would help bring a shine as I have only ever used steel wool to rub back ready for the next coat. I feel stupid asking really. Can anyone post a picture of an item that has been finished with this method so I can see a result, and I there are any tricks to doing this.

And is there any specific wax I should be using? The finish I have applied is polyeurethene.

thanks

I thought 0000 grade steel wool was equivalent to around 1000 grit, plus/minus 20%

But according to this site it's only about 300 - 600 grit.

I guess that if you've only surface finished up to a max. of 480 grit in the first place, then it can improve the overall finish.

I'm not a fan of mixing steel wool and timber at any stage though... small pieces break off and cause discolourment in the finish with age.

Hi,
These are finished in this way clear lacquer then polished with wax and 0000 steel wool. I use Wattle Danish wax or Mirotone furniture wax they are thin waxes and give a beautiful sheen.
Regards Rod.

If steel isn't acceptable wools in bronze, brass, copper and stainless steel are also available. Bronze is my favorite for de-nibbing varnish.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Rod Gilbert

Hi,
These are finished in this way clear lacquer then polished with wax and 0000 steel wool. I use Wattle Danish wax or Mirotone furniture wax they are thin waxes and give a beautiful sheen.
Regards Rod.

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cheers Rod