How to brush steel for sculptures

A. Try doing a search on this website to see previous threads on this subject. For a short answer....you can "brush" by many methods, sanding discs, scotchbrite pads, scotchbrite wheels, sandpaper, flap wheels, cratex wheels, etc. I've even seen bead blast referred to as brushed. Each method will get you different results..experiment or post a picture of the exact finish your looking for so we can narrow down the method. As for protecting it with a clear finish, the best thing I've heard of is clear UV resistant urethane. You can use regular urethanes or epoxide etc., but if they don't have additives to make them UV stable they will yellow with age. Again there has been a few threads on this subject, they might be helpful if its financially feasible use stainless, from what I've heard stainless isn't too much different to weld, you just have to use different filler material.