In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with artist David Madero (@madero_co) live at FABTECH in the Walter Surface Technologies booth. They dig into stainless MIG for sculptural texture, a step-by-step path to mirror polish (without those heartbreaking last-step scratches), and where automation fits in for grinding and finishing.
Key Topics Covered:
Mirror polish without surprise scratches: working through ~5–6 abrasives and why a consistent sequence matters.
Why he chose MIG on stainless (coming from oxy/acetylene) and what that unlocked for texture.
Shielding gas on stainless MIG: opting for straight CO₂ to encourage artistic porosity and surface character.
Pre-polish prep that won’t bite you: why sandblasting can pit stainless and how wire wheels & careful prep help.
Tool stack for speed: Walter Big Buff, Linemate for line effects/cross-hatching, plus a powerful die grinder and wire brush.
Workflow for the neurospicy welder: using strict, written step-by-step instructions to avoid backtracking.
Automation vs. artistry: PushCorp’s automated grinding and the question of “can a robot grind with soul?”
Safety & visibility: welding hood with side windows and gel-pack headgear for comfort and awareness.
Community matters: why Walter’s “big company that feels like family” vibe supports creative work.
Future builds: figurative pieces shaped with grinder-carved textures and cross-hatched finishes.
Memorable Quotes:
“Don’t sandblast when you want a mirror finish.”
“I’m looking for those happy accidents, that texture most welders try to avoid.”
“People still appreciate hand-made, it has soul.”
“With the right sequence, those last-step scratches don’t show up.”
Check Out The Walter Products Mentioned In The Podcast
Walter Surface Technologies Finishing Tools - https://foxly.link/SLZ32J
Walter Surface Technologies Grinding Tools - https://foxly.link/mhF6s9
Walter Surface Technologies Abrasives - https://foxly.link/CS6grF
Walter Surface Technologies Welding Hoods - https://foxly.link/uWo6yg
Connect with David Madero
Instagram - @madero_co https://www.instagram.com/madero_co/
TikTok - @madero_co https://www.tiktok.com/@madero_co
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MaderoCo
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MaderoCo
Connect With Walter Surface Technologies
Website - https://www.walter.com/us/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WalterSurfaceTech
Instagram - @waltersurfacetech https://www.instagram.com/waltersurfacetech/
TikTok - @waltersurfacetech https://www.tiktok.com/@waltersurfacetech
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/walter-surface-technologies
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPYqYBAv0JZD0Zg0cm0sXcg
Connect with Beau Wigington
Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding
E-Mail : beauw@weld.com
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