Nib Files for Dust Nubs
Quick tips on preventing, or removing, occasional dust nubs from finished pieces. March 9, 2010
Question
I am spraying ICA's poly acrylic semi 55 sheen (semi gloss). Due to the temperature, I have to thin it out and the colder temps is causing a slower cure so I have very small dust nubs. Is there any way I can easily remove them without breaking out the polisher? It's all furniture and I only have to do the some parts, so I am afraid if I go the pumice/rottenstone route, I will have to do the whole piece of furniture. Most of the pieces are Italian Ebony veneer, so the stuff is dark. What's your secret?
Forum Responses
(Finishing Forum)
From contributor R:
I use two methods, the first and best is to try and eliminate them by using a dust shield. Right after spraying I place whatever it is under a sheet of cardboard or MDF about 1" above the wet freshly sprayed object. This usually keeps most airborne dust from settling into the wet finish. For those few buggers that manage to get through anyway I like a nib file used only after a full drying cure (minimum 24 hours with 2k urethane, longer is better).
From contributor S:
As contributor R said, a nib file works best on a limited number of dust nibs that are embedded. You can find one at the local Napa Auto parts store up north. If they have to order it they will usually get by the next day. If the dust is just barely attached and there is lots of it a dollar bill or brown paper rub will usually do the trick.
From the original questioner:
Thanks. I ordered my files and will try the Kraft paper in a few days after a good cure.
From contributor K:
Where did you order the nib file from? I asked at my local Napa and they had never heard of them.
From the original questioner:
I ordered two files and am going to try clay remover.
From contributor R:
When using the file to remove nibs don't apply any pressure, just use the weight of the file to remove the nib. If you are filing out runs or defects then you can get very aggressive and use it just like a regular file.
From contributor P:
I use the back side of sandpaper and they go away.
