Making a finish with a satin effect can be achieved in two ways. One way is using a finish labeled as satin , where the manufacturer has added a compound that is composed of small opaque particles that scatter the light and prevents complete surface reflection.. Clear finishes are normally, satin, semi-gloss or gloss.

The second way to create a satin finish is to create small scratches in gloss lacquer or varnish. The scratches in the finish surface scatter reflected light and are created with fine sandpaper, steel-wool, or a coarse polishing compound like pumice powder. The coarseness of the method determines the degree of gloss achieved. A matte surface can be produced with something like 600 grit sandpaper, 3/0 steel wool or pumice. A satin surface can be made by taking the polishing a step further such as using rottenstone over a pumice polished surface, using 1,000 grit sandpaper over a 600 grit, or using 4/0 steel wool over 3/0.

Murray