Well, I can say I learned a lot with filing. Trying to file out the convex shape of the plate did not work great with the files I have, I need some that are more narrow I think. When i file one area, it digs in another. Polishing worked out great though. 

I had written this off as a good first attempt that is more than usable,  but not perfect.  I was reading this morning on electroplating and stuff came up about nickel plating plastic using conductive paint. I think I'll try and fill the voids and low spots with epoxy and sand it smooth and even. Then I'll try the conductive paint and plate it. 

Should be an interesting experiment!

Thanks! I think I got over zealous cleaning up my bad weld. Another lesson learned,  I should have welded on a thin piece of metal onto the sides, rather than building up the sides with nothing other than a stick welder. I have learned quite a bit on this project,  and have more to go! If it ends up bad, I suppose I'm only out a $35 plate, so I'd say thats worth what I'm learning!

These are the marks giving me a hard time

I'd reweld the pits before I'd fill with epoxy and try electroforming over them to support plating.

The plating you'll have as a result won't be very durable, and I'd expect it will be peeling before long.  Silver solder in the pits would be a better alternative.

Hmmm, i never thought of that. J don't have a torch, by my wife got me an outdoor broiler for my outdoor kitchen that goes to 1500 degrees.  That should do it!