suede mat surfaces

[Dave King]

No matter how carefully I store suede mats some end up with surface marks. Does anyone have a remedy for buffing up the surface to remove some of these marks?

[JRB]

Dave, We use a comercial steamer for doing that, aso a small fingernail scrub brush helps.
The steamer costs about $150.00 and you can get it fom Victory Distributers in Los Angeles, or look up Jiffy steamer on the web.
I'ts one of those tools you hardly ever use but when you need one you REALLY need one.
Tip: If you get one, they won't tell you, but use distilled water only in it, it will last a whole lot longer.
John

[ArtLady]

There is a medium density block sponge thing you can purchase to buff up the nap. I can't remember where mine came from. I will look into it. It is also a bit rubbery so there is a friction factor that helps.

------------------
Timberwoman
AL
I cut the mat, I pet the =^..^= cat.

[Le]

I start by reversing a scrap of suede matboard and rubbing it over the surface. If I get to the steamer stage I've been through the damp cloth and the brass brush. I can always find my steamer. It's at home next to the ironing board.

[Jana]

In our shop, we use a steam iron and a brush (an inexpensive 2" paint brush works) to lightly brush out the lines. This system works well and is less expensive than a steamer, I think. Make sure the mat is thoroughly dry before finishing the package.

[ChriSetlo]

Watercolor brush, slightly damp. Brush the line out, then use a lint brush to blend into the nap of the suede. This works 4 out of 5 times.
-chris