An update for those watching me learn (or embarrass myself) in public:

Bought some Renaissance wax for better sheen at the end.

Started over from the white on the 3 iron Oxford to etch as a first step, which is done by some (Gaddy had done so), but not all. Some feel it doesn't make any appreciable difference. So far, I agree with them.

Lastly, "fun" is not what I'd call this process right now. Highly variable is more along the lines of what this is like, however, I'm determined to become good at it.