Another option for the hobbyist for plating: Find yourself a shop like
mine which does repair of woodwind and brass band instruments.

Although we do not own any plating equipment (due not only initial
costs, but all the government regulations surrounding its use and
disposal) we quite often need parts plated.  We have contacts with local
platers as well as those to which we need to send the work via express
shippers.  Quite often we are called upon to do plating work on
"antiques" (actually, more often than not, to *remove* plating to make
something look older).  But I digress.

A shop like this can do all the preparation work, which should involve
removal of any old plating, cleaning, buffing, and degreasing, before
sending it out for the actual plating.  I'm sure that most would find the
cost quite reasonable.  Plating can usually be done in nickel, brass,
silver, gold, and chrome.

Jon Miller¶
Saint Paul MN

 [ An excellent suggestion, Jon!  The musical instrument repairmen who I
 [ deal with all love and respect the old techniques.  They will see
 [ that the job is done right, even though they send out for the plating.
 [  -- Robbie