I can't see why it wouldn't work, Paul. The biggest challenge will be to ensure that you don't end up with too much "oriented grain" in different areas... I would think it is relatively difficult to get a really random pattern (although certainly no more difficult than when using a drill or Dremel tool). Now there's an idea...cut little discs of that Scotchbrite and chuck them into a Dremel tool! Could be too easy to "overdo" it in some areas though.
I'm picturing trying to scratch the spaces between the valve casings in around the casing/casing supports and casing/tubing braces.....going to be mighty awkward.
That concern (controlling the "grain") is one reason why I think I would personally prefer bead blasting (or "satin" finish) to scratch/brush.
And there is ANOTHER idea....how about a trumpet with the bell surface "machine tooled"? (those highly consistent swirls that you see on some automotive aluminum surfaces?) Figured I'd put that idea in here so that it can't be used for the Eclipse contest! HAHA. Leigh...feel free to use it "gratis". Maybe on the cornet you are thinking of building for me.
