The Quickest (and Cheapest) Way to Upgrade Your Kitchen Space

Q: Which Dremel Multi-Tool should I use for polishing at home?

All Dremel Multi-Tools can handle polishing tasks, thanks to their versatility. For even smoother results, go for a cordless model with variable speed - like the Dremel 8240 or Dremel Lite . Variable speed helps you stay in control, avoid over-polishing, and easily work around curves and tight spots.

Q: What if my brass item has a lacquer coating?

You’ll need to remove the lacquer before polishing. Use a brass-safe lacquer remover to gently strip the coating - otherwise, the polishing accessories won’t be able to reach the actual metal, and you won’t get that satisfying shine.

Q: How do I know if my item is solid brass or just brass-plated?

Easy: try the magnet test. If a magnet sticks, it’s likely brass-plated over another metal. If it doesn’t stick, congrats - you’ve got solid brass, which is perfect for polishing.

Q: How often should I polish brass items?

If your brass item is touched often or exposed to air (like knobs or lamps), give it a polish once or twice a year. For decorative pieces, a quick refresh whenever it starts to look dull will keep it looking its best.

Tips and Tricks

Dremel Blogs

Polishing a rusty antique kitchen item with 8240.

You don’t need an entire weekend - or a renovation budget - to make your kitchen feel fresh again. Sometimes, a simple Saturday morning project is enough to bring back the glow. One of the quickest upgrades? Polishing your metal accents. These little details collect years of fingerprints and tarnish, but with the right tools (hint: your Dremel Multi-Tool), you can restore their shine in minutes and give your kitchen a whole new feel.

Your Kitchen Refresh Checklist

Here are a few quick wins you can tackle over coffee:

Polish cabinet handles that have dulled over time
Restore brass light fixtures for a warm, elegant glow
Buff stainless steel faucets to erase water spots and grime
Revive copper pans or utensils displayed on open shelving
Touch up metal switch plates, hooks, or drawer knobs

It’s fast, it’s satisfying, and your kitchen will thank you.

Polish It Right!

Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly and drying it well. If you're working with brass that has a lacquer coating, use a brass-safe remover first. Then, grab your Dremel Multi-Tool and attach the Polishing Cone 422 for flat areas or the Polishing Wheel 414 for detailed edges. Add a bit of polishing compound, set the tool to a low-to-medium speed, and move in slow, circular motions.

Pro Tip: Once you've finished polishing, wipe down the surface with a soft microfiber cloth to remove any leftover compound and reveal the final shine.