I would highly suggest you finish the lure before painting and top coating even in a through wire bait (put the wire in)
OR lightly coat the brass rods with a lubricant.
All you really need to do is scuff the surface then base coat. I use 320 grit sandpaper, you can also use scotchbright pads, or even 800 grit sand paper.
WOW, great booth and wonderful thread here. I really enjoyed the read.
Another thing you can use instead of a dimmer switch is a foot control from a sewing maching, they also work great on the drill press.
Wonderful work!!! I love doing the foil that way it gives more depth.
Just getting the wire "straight" is an accomplishment, you sir gots it down to an art.
Hoodaddy, I made a tutorial for you to downsize your pictures.
Hope it helps ya out some. Feel free to email me anytime if you need help, ok? terry1.clark@yahoo.com
Here is the tutorial.