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David Billington

Ned Simmons wrote:
On Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:46:22 GMT, (dan) wrote:

I remember reading some where(RCM?) that you can make a black surface
finish on hot steel by applying oil. Anyone know what kind of oil to
use. I'm guessing it is like seasoning a cast iron frying pan.

Linseed oil works. Dab it on with a small piece of cotton rag. The
steel needs to be hot enough that the oil smokes and carbonizes while
you're applying it. Wipe off the excess when the piece is cools. A
coat of paste wax adds some protection and seems to make the finish
darker.

And if you use Linseed oil on a rag do something like burn the rag after
use. Linseed oil on rags is prone to spontaneous combustion an can light
up later on if you just chuck it in the bin.