roop,
One of the common uses for epoxy is to build heads on flies. One of the things that always frustrates me are the microbubbles that get trapped in the mix. I've tried heating the mix (a la page rogers) but it shortens the working time so much it's only good for one fly.
Any technique that you use to get a clear finish?
I have been primarily using it to finish the heads of my baitfish patterns and really like the way it brings out the color of the materials/ brings the color to the surface. That's why I would like to find it in larger containers than the 2-part syringe.
Anyway, I just squirt a small amount into a dixie cup & mix with a coffee stirrer. I start off by putting a small drop where each of the eyes will go, get those where I want and then using small dollops again, work the epoxy around the edges of the eyes, filling the void between them and then down the nose to the eye of the hook, slowlly pulling it along.
Based upon the quality of the sample flies of yours I've seen, I find it hard to believe that there are really any noticeable bubbles in your finished products.
Maybe it's the epoxy. Lately I've been using Superglue's 5 min. epoxy and really like it - it has a crystal clear finish.
Dave P also suggests 20 minute epoxy, Domenic recommends 1 minute.
I've also read about Red Devil having an acrlyic caulk that dries clear and is much easier to use - haven't found it yet.
Devcon makes a nice two-part bulk 5 minute epoxy. It comes with two ketchup squeezer style bottles in a blue and white box. Mine has lasted about 3 years so far. Bubbles are not a problem if mixed using a popsicle stick style stick (I use starbuck's stirrers). The rumor that wood causes yellowing is not true. The secret (according to scientists at 3M corporation who took my inquiry VERY seriously) to keeping a clear mixture is the mixture itself, in other words having too much catalyst will yellow the mix. Ultraviolet light is also a big factor. In fact, 3M provides a wooden stir stick with many of their products.
I'll take a look on the box for the part no. etc. I have seen it at hardware, hobby and fly shops. I am certain Smitty will have it at the Rod Builder's Workshop in Kingston (781) 582-1015. His place always smells like glue
1. Less Bubbles, Mix slow and in one direction. This removes some of the bubbles
2. Bulk, Devcon is nice. Actually I have gone to the two part that comes in the single dispencer, it is more expensive per ounce but easier to use and alway mixes in the right parts
3. Which Type, the longer the drying time the harder and clearer it is. The 1 minute is a bad choice I think because it tends to yellow and doesn't last very long. That is important when you are making stuff like surf candy which lasts for ever. 5 minute is the most popular. I use it the most. 10 would be a better choice then 20 minute. If you are going to use 10 or especially 20min you have to have an electric turner or you will be sitting there for ever.
I also use the devcon bottle, and am about a third of the way through the bottles after two years with them.
I find that a fast steady stir, like beating eggs, gets rid of teh bubbles.
I also have personally dispelled the wood utensil yellowing myth--I use wood coffee sirrers, snip the end at a 45 degree angle so there is a point to it, and mix all my epoxy on yellow post it note pads and never have any discoloration problems...
Jeff
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