Mini Buffer

I must credit Russ Fairfield with the idea of using a standard 9" painting roller cover for buffing. This one is wool and has a ¾" nap.

The adapters are my own design. I turned two wood plugs. The headstock plug has a Morse taper in one end (turned as part of the plug), and the other end was turned down to fit into the cover. The tailstock end was turned down to fit into the cover, with a 60° taper to fit the live center. A ridge or collar keeps the plugs from going too far into the cover.

For small items, such as pens, one cover can be used with more than one buffing compound. The paint roller cover I got from Lowe's cost about $8, and I use the cover in four sections: Tripoli, white diamond, TSW, and bare. TSW or "Trade Secret for Wood" is a wax that I use for pens and other small turnings. I apply the TSW to the wood, and let it dry for a minute or two. Then buff. Some stays on the wheel. Bee's wax and carnauba can be applied directly to the cover.

Darrell Feltmate added: I have been doing the same for some time except that I use a polyester roller cover for its limited abrasive quality and I have it mounted on the drill press. It works well.