Monday, October 13, 2014

Make Stuff With Fiberglass

Fiberglass is used for many things.


Fiberglass is a versatile building supply. Fiberglass mats and resin are combined to make durable, long-lasting products of any size. Unlike other materials, such as metal and wood, fiberglass can mold to different shapes. Fiberglass is used in home projects, marine applications and car audio, body kits and panels. The method used in fiberglass application is not very challenging. However, it does require patience and a lot of practice to make stuff with fiberglass.


Instructions


MDF and Fleece


1. Measure and cut pieces of MDF with a saw, according to the size and shape of the fiberglass project. Assemble the frame with screws and a screwdriver.


2. Drape a lightweight fleece over the top of the frame. Starting in the middle, stretch the fleece and staple in place. Cut away any excess fabric.


3. Place the mold on a drop cloth. Put on your safety goggles, dust mask and gloves.


4. Follow the package instructions on the resin. Pour the resin into a bucket. Apply a coat of resin over the fleece. Allow the resin to dry.


5. Apply another coat of resin over the first layer. Place the fiberglass mat on the wet resin. Apply a coat of resin over the matting. Repeat the process until the mold is covered with a layer of matting.


6. Allow the resin to dry. Repeat the application process of the matting. Place three to ten layers of matting on the mold, until the desired thickness and strength is achieved.


7. Apply the body filler and allow it to dry. Sand the surface of the fiberglass and apply another layer of body filler. If you are painting the fiberglass project, first apply a coat of primer, then the paint.


Foam


8. Cut the foam with a craft knife to form a mold. Finish rough surfaces and edges with sandpaper.


9. Place the mold on a drop cloth. Put on your safety goggles, dust mask and gloves.


10. Set the matting on the surface of the foam. Follow the package instructions on the resin. Pour the resin into a bucket. Coat the matting with resin. Allow the resin to dry.


11. Repeat the application process of the matting. Place three to ten layers of matting on the mold, until the desired thickness and strength is achieved.


12. Apply the body filler and allow it to dry. Sand the surface of the fiberglass and apply another layer of body filler. If you are painting the fiberglass project, first apply a coast of primer, then the paint.


Pre-made Mold


13. Coat the pre-made mold in a mold release wax. This allows the fiberglass shell to slip off of the mold when it is finished.


14. Place the mold on a drop cloth. Put on your safety goggles, dust mask and gloves.


15. Follow the package instructions on the resin. Pour the resin into a bucket. Apply a coat of resin on the mold. Allow the resin to dry.


16. Repeat the application process of the matting. Place three to ten layers of matting on the mold, until the desired thickness and strength is achieved.


17.Apply the body filler and allow it to dry. Sand the surface of the fiberglass and apply another layer of body filler. If you are painting the fiberglass project, first apply a coast of primer, then the paint.