Buffing/polishing small items?

[L2wis]

I make small bits and bobs on my wood lathe and was wondering what was the best way to polish the faces of pieces once off the lathe?

Is the best approach to use a buffing wheel mounted on the lathe?

 

[CHJ]

....Is the best approach to use a buffing wheel mounted on the lathe?

IMHO Yes, although dependant upon what basic wood preparation sealing you have used you might want to use a three wheel system such as the Chestnut or Beal or their equivalents.

Basically a firmer fabric wheel (linen) with a Tripoli abrasive to blend out any raised grain, dust nibs or the sealer build up streaks.
A mid stiffness wheel (linen/cotton blend) loaded with a 'white diamond' compound to clean up any Tripoli debris and impart a finer gloss.

A soft cotton looseleaf wheel to give enough friction heat to apply carnauba wax or finish blending of Micro crystalline wax.

Take a look at my Bits and Pieces, all recent items treated this way and I rarely sand down below 240grit.

 

[L2wis]

fantastic info there CHJ thanks! I love your segment boxes by the way!