I have a lot of computers under my bed which I don't really use (the computers, mind you!). I am thinking of modding one or two. The sides are made out of metal, which is beige/off white. Can I use a sander and sand it down to the metal, and cover it with some kind of clear coat, and the I'll have myself a nice little "aluminum" case? (Of course, I would have to make a new bezel). Suggestions? Advice? Anything? Huh?
yeah... I actually did this for a system I made for my cousin. I used round sanding disks that mounted on my cordless drill. Gave it a swirly brushed look... my wife did this for a table she made out of engineering drawers. The clearcoat is highly suggested as not only is the steel is exposed but if you give it a rough sand like I did, the added surface area will promote rust to form even faster than normal. We also used a wire brush wheel attachment on the drill and that had some neat effects..
I guess I'll give it a try, then. Is it ok to use a flat sander? (don't know what they're called in English? Should I just use the wirebrush in the end? What kind of clear coat do you recommend?
yeah, a flat sander (sanding block) will work fine... those are good to get a "brushed" look.... use some coarse grit paper and sand it in a straight/uniform direction and get some nice effects to... just a lot more work. I used Rustoleum clear coat, worked well for me but geography dictates what you have availabe to you're specific area.
paint remover would be a good shortcut but I get the impression from bard that he is seeking a "finished" metal look too.
