Abstract: An improved lightweight composite article comprises a base portion and a spaced apart cap portion between which is secured a body portion comprising a plurality of thin metallic ribbons secured between the base portion and cap portion. The ribbons are disposed in substantially unbonded, aligned relationship at an upper wall portion which is integral with the cap portion formed from top edge extensions of the ribbons. The cap portion is disposed angularly to the body portion to provide one boundary of interstices defined within the member. Such a lightweight, porous-type member can be provided with a relatively smooth, substantially continuous surface through the rubbing or smearing of portions of the member surface with a smooth, relatively hard moving rubbing surface such as the peripheral smooth rim surface of a rotating wheel.