Rottenstone

Rottenstone is a very fine abrasive for polishing french polish finishes. It is ideal for producing an "aged" dusty look on newly restored antiques, modern furniture and picture frames etc. It can be used wet or dry. Apply with a light oil such as liquid paraffin or linseed oil and a cotton or felt pad. Dip the pad into the oil and then into the rottenstone. Using moderate pressure rub along the grain until the desired level of sheen is acheived. Wipe off excess with a cotton cloth then wipe over with a cloth dampened with white spirit to remove the oil film. Allow to dry before applying a wax. For an aged effect on gilded surfaces, lightky dust the surface using a pounce or soft brush and then blow or lightly brush off excess Rottenstone leaving the dust to lie in the recesses.