gebürstet

Gebürstet (German for brushed) is a term used to describe a surface finish produced by brushing, typically on metal surfaces. It results from moving an abrasive medium—such as a wire brush, abrasive belt, or pad—against the surface to create a controlled, unidirectional grain. The finish is satin-like and has visible linear patterns that lower reflectivity compared with a polished surface while preserving a metallic luster.

Process and variables: The grain direction is defined by the brushing path. The appearance depends on abrasive grit size, brush type, and feed speed. Finer grits produce subtler lines; coarser grits produce more pronounced texture. Many finishes use repeat passes in the same direction to maintain a consistent grain; others apply additional passes to create more complex patterns.

Materials and applications: The technique is common on stainless steel and aluminum, but can also be used on copper, brass, and certain plastics. Typical applications include kitchen appliances and sinks, architectural cladding, automotive trim, handrails, and consumer electronics housings.

Care and considerations: Brushed finishes conceal small scratches along the grain but lines can reveal damage perpendicular to the grain. They are generally less reflective than polished finishes and may show fingerprints and water spots. To preserve appearance, brushed surfaces are often protected with clear coatings or sealants, especially on non-stainless metals, and routine cleaning with non-abrasive products is advised.