{"title":"Micro Abrasives","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbrasives we use for nib smoothing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese are the micro abrasives we use to smooth the nib tipping on a pen after the tuning is complete. Useful for removing tiny surface imperfections, to improve the smooth feel of the nib.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbrasive choice depends on how aggressively you wish to remove material. A conservative approach is to learn on MICRO-MESH in 12000 grade, available in either the flexible sheet or pad format. Then bring back the shine to the metal with a few passes on the Diamond Polishing Film. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"micro-mesh-8000-grade-sheet-square-75mm-x-75mm","title":"MICRO-MESH 8000 Grade Sheet - Rectangle (100mm x 75mm)","description":"\u003ch1\u003eFlexible nib smoothing sheet\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flexible Micro-Mesh abrasive we use to smooth fountain pen nibs. Unlike the padded version, this is a thin fabric sheet that can be used flat on a workbench or draped around the nib when you want to work a more specific area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied as an individual sheet in your choice of 8000 or 12000 grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat sets it apart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible fabric backing can be used flat or wrapped around a nib\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eControlled, consistent smoothing action\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8000 grade for more substantial smoothing work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12000 grade for finishing and minor nib feedback\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEasy to cut or fold into a smaller working area if needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor general smoothing, lay the sheet flat on a firm work surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWith the nib well tuned and inked, or wet with water, draw figure 8s and infinity signs across the abrasive. Roll the nib slightly as you make each pass to help maintain the round shape of the tipping and avoid creating a flat foot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor most jobs, we use the 8000 grade for approximately 3 passes horizontally and 3 vertically, then finish with the 12000 grade.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor minor nib feedback, the 12000 grade alone will usually be enough.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe flexible sheet can also be draped around the nib when you need to work a particular area or prefer to bring the abrasive to the nib rather than moving the pen across a flat surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Micro-Mesh difference\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicro-Mesh was originally developed for fine-art restoration, where the aim was to remove contamination without unnecessarily damaging the original surface underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike conventional sandpaper, where abrasive crystals are relatively rigid, Micro-Mesh uses cushioned abrasive crystals. This gives a more uniform and softer approach to smoothing, generating less heat and helping the abrasive last longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoothing a fountain pen nib with an abrasive will void any applicable nib warranty claim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eA note about the smell\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a slight smell to the material when new. A bit like new-car smell. It's normal for the product and should diminish with use.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"MICRO-MESH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41956488020050,"sku":"WLV-MM8000","price":9.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/lp-micro-mesh-sheet-8000-larrypost.png?v=1739191337"},{"product_id":"micro-mesh-12000-grade-sheet-square-75mm-x-75mm","title":"MICRO-MESH 12000 Grade Sheet - Rectangle (100mm x 75mm)","description":"\u003ch1\u003eFlexible nib smoothing sheet\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flexible Micro-Mesh abrasive we use to smooth fountain pen nibs. Unlike the padded version, this is a thin fabric sheet that can be used flat on a workbench or draped around the nib when you want to work a more specific area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied as an individual sheet in your choice of 8000 or 12000 grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat sets it apart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible fabric backing can be used flat or wrapped around a nib\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eControlled, consistent smoothing action\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8000 grade for more substantial smoothing work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12000 grade for finishing and minor nib feedback\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEasy to cut or fold into a smaller working area if needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor general smoothing, lay the sheet flat on a firm work surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWith the nib well tuned and inked, or wet with water, draw figure 8s and infinity signs across the abrasive. Roll the nib slightly as you make each pass to help maintain the round shape of the tipping and avoid creating a flat foot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor most jobs, we use the 8000 grade for approximately 3 passes horizontally and 3 vertically, then finish with the 12000 grade.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor minor nib feedback, the 12000 grade alone will usually be enough.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe flexible sheet can also be draped around the nib when you need to work a particular area or prefer to bring the abrasive to the nib rather than moving the pen across a flat surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Micro-Mesh difference\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicro-Mesh was originally developed for fine-art restoration, where the aim was to remove contamination without unnecessarily damaging the original surface underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike conventional sandpaper, where abrasive crystals are relatively rigid, Micro-Mesh uses cushioned abrasive crystals. This gives a more uniform and softer approach to smoothing, generating less heat and helping the abrasive last longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoothing a fountain pen nib with an abrasive will void any applicable nib warranty claim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eA note about the smell\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a slight smell to the material when new. A bit like new-car smell. It's normal for the product and should diminish with use.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"MICRO-MESH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42065482907730,"sku":"WLV-MM12000-Square","price":9.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/lp-micro-mesh-sheet-8000-larrypost_1.png?v=1749535053"},{"product_id":"m-tri-m-ite-flexible-polishing-fabric-4000-grade-sheet-b6-125-x-176mm","title":"3M Tri-M-Ite WetorDry Polishing Fabric - approx A6 (108 x 140mm)","description":"\u003cp\u003eFlexible fabric polishing sheet for smoothing fountain pen nibs. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan be used wet or dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilicon carbide micro abrasive in grit ranges from 4000 (pink), 6000 (mint) and 8000 (pale green) which is equivalent to 3, 2 and 1 micron.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use these for smoothing nibs, starting with the coarsest and finishing with the 8000 grit. The flexible characteristic allows you to wrap the abrasive around the nib, which may help you maintain the round profile of the nib.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied as approximately A6 size piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eManufactured by 3M in USA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: Smoothing new nibs with abrasives will void the manufacturer's warranty.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"3M","offers":[{"title":"4000 Pink","offer_id":42263767842898,"sku":"WLV-3M-Tri-M-Ite-A6-4000-Pink","price":7.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"6000 Mint Blue","offer_id":42263767875666,"sku":"WLV-3M-Tri-M-Ite-A6-6000-Mint","price":7.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"8000 Light Green","offer_id":42263767908434,"sku":"WLV-3M-Tri-M-Ite-A6-8000-Pale-Green","price":7.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/3M-Nib-Polishing-Fabric-LarryPOST.webp?v=1768965935"},{"product_id":"matador-wet-dry-waterproof-emery-paper-3000-approx-a6-105-x-148mm","title":"Matador Wet \u0026 Dry Microgrit Paper (Waterproof) - approx A6 (114 x 138mm)","description":"\u003cp\u003eFine grain abrasive sandpaper, from German manufacturer Starcke. Not as fine as the micro-abrasives we use for smoothing nibs, but can be useful if you need to remove more material than usual. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eCommonly used for precision grinding applications in jewellery, watch, electronics and optical industry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable for metal, stainless steel and plastics, \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003efor hand sanding to a smooth surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eFlexible sheet with good tear resistance. Waterproof backing so sheet doesn't disintegrate when exposed to the ink from your pen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain type is an extremely uniform silicon carbide. Available in Starcke grit sizes of ST3000 and ST7000.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied in roughly A6 size piece. Grit sizes we carry are a khaki colour with a paper backing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest results achieved if you finish the nib polishing with a micro-abrasive such as Micro-Mesh or 3M Tri-M-Ite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: Smoothing new nibs with abrasives will void the manufacturer's warranty.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"STARCKE","offers":[{"title":"3000","offer_id":42263785603154,"sku":"WLP-Matador-ST3000-A6","price":4.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"7000","offer_id":42263785635922,"sku":"WLP-Matador-ST7000-A6","price":4.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/Starcke-Matador-Micro-Abrasive-LarryPOST.jpg?v=1768969243"},{"product_id":"diamond-polishing-film-0-5-micron-127mm-diametre","title":"Diamond Polishing Film (127mm diametre) - 0.5 micron","description":"\u003cp\u003eDiamond polishing film, usually used for smoothing fibre optic cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use as the final step in smoothing a fountain pen nib tipping to make it ultra smooth and bring back the shine that may have been removed from more aggressive abrasives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTop surface is used to smooth the nib. Gloss surface is the back of the film and not for any purpose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiece is flexible, but best used flat on the desk.  Use by passing the inked fountain pen across the film. Take care to vary the angle of the nib to ensure you don't create a flat foot on the nib. See the second image for an example of the type of strokes used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied as a single round of 127mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: Smoothing new nibs with abrasives will void the manufacturer's warranty.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LarryPOST","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42469122998354,"sku":"WLP-Diamond-Polishing-Film-0.5um","price":6.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/Diamond-Film-LarryPOST.jpg?v=1782969140"},{"product_id":"micro-mesh-soft-touch-pad-12000-grade-pink-rectangle-100mm-x-75mm","title":"MICRO-MESH Soft Touch Pad - 12000 Grade (Pink) - Rectangle (100mm x 75mm)","description":"\u003ch1\u003eNib smoothing pad\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe micro-abrasive we use for smoothing fountain pen nibs. This padded version has the same grade abrasive on both sides, with a soft foam core in between.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe padded construction works particularly well if you prefer to move the pen rather than manipulate a thin abrasive sheet around the nib. Supplied as an individual pad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat sets it apart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCushioned abrasive gives a more controlled, forgiving approach to nib smoothing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbrasive on both sides of the pad\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoam core makes it easy to hold while working the nib\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvailable in 12000 grades, for finishing and minor nib feedback\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe same Micro-Mesh material we use at LarryPOST\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use it\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStart with a properly tuned, inked nib, or wet the nib with water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw figure 8s and infinity signs across the abrasive, taking care to roll the nib slightly as you work. This helps maintain the round shape of the tipping rather than creating a flat foot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor most smoothing jobs, we use the 8000 grade for approximately 3 passes horizontally and 3 vertically, followed by the 12000 grade to finish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor minor nib feedback, the 12000 grade alone will usually be sufficient.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck your progress frequently. It is very easy to over polish a nib, which can widen the line and alter the shape of the tipping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you're new to nib polishing, practise on an inexpensive stainless steel nib before working on a more valuable pen, particularly a gold nib.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Micro-Mesh difference\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicro-Mesh was originally developed for fine-art restoration, where abrasive materials needed to remove contamination without unnecessarily damaging the original surface underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike conventional sandpaper, where the abrasive crystals are relatively rigid, Micro-Mesh uses cushioned abrasive crystals. This gives a more uniform and controlled smoothing action, with less heat generated during use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cushioned construction also helps the abrasive last longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoothing a fountain pen nib with an abrasive will void any applicable nib warranty claim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecome a nib explorer with micro-abrasives used by professionals.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"MICRO-MESH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42740080869458,"sku":"WLV-MM12000-Pink-Pad","price":16.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0574\/4033\/8002\/files\/Micro-Mesh-soft-touch-pad.jpg?v=1789699126"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.larrypost.com.au\/collections\/micro-abrasives.oembed","provider":"LarryPOST","version":"1.0","type":"link"}