I'd recommend starting with less abrasive and methods of cleaning before jumping straight into the heavy scotchbrite. Soap and water first to get rid of any grease and then a scrub with a brush and maybe some brasso or light acid (vinegar). Also, get a good flat surface for sanding against. At least an undamaged piece of flat wood. Personally I keep a few pieces of thicker tempered glass around with sandpaper spray glued down. I can line them all up and work my way through the grits.
![What's in the box?! 1890s Safe [Restoration]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kugqGatwLDY/mqdefault.jpg)
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I'd recommend starting with less abrasive and methods of cleaning before jumping straight into the heavy scotchbrite. Soap and water first to get rid of any grease and then a scrub with a brush and maybe some brasso or light acid (vinegar). Also, get a good flat surface for sanding against. At least an undamaged piece of flat wood. Personally I keep a few pieces of thicker tempered glass around with sandpaper spray glued down. I can line them all up and work my way through the grits.
I will actually try vinegar on some brass parts I have laying around to see how it works , thank you for the advice !