Forced Patina-how polished before hand ????

[Angus McGunnigl]

I'm starting some forced patina experiments next weekend and am wondering how shiny the blades should be prior to the beginning of the "forcing of the patina'.
I'll polish up to 600 grit by hand and then soak in vinegar to see what happens.
Do I have to go to that high of grit first or higher ?

Thanks in advance for any responses.

there are no photos. I must have clicked something wrong.

 

[Redmeadow Knives]

In my limited experience the higher the grit the better. I would go to at least 800 grit, 600 might do fine but will show through a little bit. Vinegar will give you a solid grey/black. Since your experimenting, try out everything in the fridge. I like using mustard and then slicing up a lime and letting it sit. I clean the blade well with alcohol beforehand. I have found the most interesting patterns by accident. But I am learning through trial and error with a pretty high percentage of error at times!