First Project

No pics yet and I don't even know if it will be worth it, but for $13 bucks I got 8 sq ft of cloth, 1 qt of resin, some procedures, mixing tools, applicator(plastic reuseable, meh), and I believe that's all. Plus I have the gloves and ceran wrap sitting around doing crap. I wanna get started doing something like a household glass for my first project (I think I'll do a standard glass first then the complex shaped owl sitting around for something different) but it is cold outside, like sitting above freezing. So I was wandering how bad would it suck to do that in a room that I can ventilate moderately well? Because I might be able to use the garage and use an outlet to blow dry the sob out there, but otherwise I need a good source of heat... And the nice space heater works well for warm. LMK ASAP, kinda hoping to start this afternoon. peace!

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

if you can ventilate your ok.  resin will make you higher than a kite if you dont get good air ventilation.  as far as the heat source, i used a heat gun when it was cold before, but be careful too much heat will begin to burn the cloth.

I advise against doing it in the house unless you have really good ventilation. Your whole house will smell like resin. To test you could pour some resin in a cup and let it sit there for a hour or so to see how far it spreads.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Well any good proposed solutions to this problem? I don't wanna deal with odor. (The cats are problem enough since the g/f rarely cleans the stupid box even with it being closed AND filtered, tho those sh*t out if not cleaned, go figure.) I'm thinking the garage (it already reaks of resin since her dad does FG work on bodies) and that should give me a way to heat it with a blow drier or something.

Any tips on knowing when exactly it is dried enough to remove from the cast or whatever.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Touch it. If it feels hard (maybe a little tacky) Its should be good. Also read the post "Garage Ventilation"

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Already did. :) Hence why I decided to get an opinion on this. :) Might have been better suited in there, but oh well.

Thanks for all the input! BTW, oonik, you got AIM by chance? Is so please feel free to say hey on there sometime. Master Asylum is the SN

Thanks for all the help!

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Yeah might start this today, though 2 hours of sleep and I got a 9 hour shift of driving at work tonight, I'll prolly sleep for a good set of hours instead but...

On mold release, what materials have worked best for people and how is it applied? Like take the foil, wrap around, then apply the release, then cloth/mat + resin over that?

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

I usually just let the foil be my release. Unless I'm doing something speical where that just wont work. You may have a few small pieces of foil stuck in crevases in the glass but nothing that you can't get out if you really want to.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Thanks again!

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Well that failed, a lot... Holy crap that is like the worst thing ever, I'm hoping the stuff atleast can clean up :/

The kit I got didn't cooperate at all. The stupid tiny ass tray they give you is the worst idea ever, it didn't work for my, at all. Infact it ended up screwing my entire thing up. The reuseable applicator, bad. The only useful thing was the cloth and resin and hardener(which I have already used 50%, *sigh*) Well maybe for my next idea I'll tear the cloth into sections to fit the glas instead of trying to get it to apply to the entire thing. f**k I wish I didn't listen to the direction, like, at all. I guess I'll try another time when I can get the appropriate supplies for the project.

On a side note, even with the gloves, some stuff got through, and it kinda stings a little. Any clue on house hold products that I can use?

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

What got through?

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

Finger nail polish remover should get it, but what kind of gloves are you using?

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

if you're talkin about the fiberglass gettin thru, use talc powder

I think the talc only works before you get it in your skin!

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

It stopped after a bit, and yes it was resin. Not sure what kinda gloves, some rubber Dynagrip stuff. It was sitting around. I may have gotten it on my hands some other way(handling the stuff as I scrapped it, I dunno) but maybe I'll start again in the next few days. Come here pizza box, I got some fun for you... (Figured I'd not waste another cup or maybe get some cheap ones.)

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

So the cup didnt work?

did the plastic not melt?

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

If your worried about getting resin on your hands, go to Wal-Mart to the painting section. You can buy a box of 100 latex or nitrile gloves for about $7 ,they are cheap enough that you can throw them off when you get any on you and slip a clean pair on quickly without touching the resin. Works great!!! There is also a product ,I think it's called Rhino but I'm not sure and its an invisible glove cream that acts as a barrier just in case the latex/nitrile glove tears.

As far as containers go I get my wife to save all the yogurt,margerine, coffee cans she can to use. She hates it when I use her tupperware!!!

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In a world full of copycats, it's great to be an original!

I use the cheap paint mixing cups at lowes. Their great b/c you can measure with them and any leftover resin can be removed once its dry by just flexing the cup a bit and it pops out like an ice cube from a tray.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

hehehe, thats hilarious I do that exact same thing nik.   I even saved one or two when I first started glassing cause I though they looked neat, but then I threw them away.

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

Ok well I'm hoping the weather starts perking up here in the next couple of weeks so I can get back to work on this... Next time I'm gonna just do a flat surface to get the idea down. After that I'll look for some cheap oddly shaped things. As for the cup melting, not sure, the box I put it in to contain the mess is, well, sealed... As for it getting through, not really worried, it went away fast enough, was just annoying.

EDIT: Concerning using F/G... For a basic application I just wanna pour the resin into a bucket/container, mix in the appropriate hardener amount, dip my cloth in the resin until it is basically soaked with it, then apply to the surface, right? Do a couple more layers and then let it dry for a couple hours? Then reapply same way until I feel it is sturdy enough?

One serious problem I had with the cup was that I tried to cover it with one piece, I can tear it into different pieces so it fits flat and have no problems, right? Sorry, this may sound really dumb, I just don't wanna mess up again. :/

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Are you dipping the fiberglass into the resin?  that can be hard and messy.  The easyest way to do it is, brush a layer of resin on the place your going to apply the fiberglass, then stick the fiberglass on there and poke at it a lil, the resin will hold it in place, ,then dip your brush in the resin again, and gob the fiberglass while pokeing at it.

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2003 Chevy Avalanche,Eclipse CD7000,Morel Elate 5,Adire Extremis,Alpine PDX-4.150, 15" TC-3000, 2 Alpine PDX-1.1000, 470Amp HO Alt.

Yes I tried dippig into the resin. I'll try the brushing technique when we get some weather. (It freaking snowed last night/today, dammit!) Anyone got some info concerning the tearing into sections then applying for flat application? That the right idea or not?

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Most people tear. I like to cut, then fray the edges. Just seems easier to work with to me. Try both ways and whatever you like best, use it.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Yeah thats the way you should apply it all over!    About 2"x2" sections.

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

How do you fray it after you make cuts?

Also my current temperatures are varyinbg from like 30-40 degree, anyone have a clue if I can still try and work with this or just forget it? I found the g/f's dad has a REALLY good heater in the garage(it was freaking toasty, like 60-70 I'd say atleast) and this is with poor insulation. If I fired that up when I first start the couple beginning layers, get it all put on, and let the heater run to get it warm for a while, you think that'd work. Or would I be fine just letting it dry for time being? (I'd assume with the heater being that effective, the electrical price tag isn't gonna be very friendly.) Let me know, I wanna avoid forcing the catalyst along, I wanna see how it turns out as el naturale as possible. (I wanna see this amazing strength FG has)

EDIT: Also, with applying multiple layers of cloth to the project, should I try criss crossing the weaves to help give a better hold?

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

To fray it I just like pull it gently with my fingers. I just like to have a smaller area of frayed mat than when I tear it. I find that whe I tear it, theres more of it frayed than not. But its just my personal preferance.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

I suggest master asylum that you go with the heater, and keeping it warm in there.  thats better than having to put extra catalyst in there and running the risk of it not being strong.  Also you should try different things like what nik suggested and try the whole tearing thing.  You have to find the way you prefer to do it.

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Learning the trade one fiberglass creation at a time!

Ok I started on the top of a tin lid from one of those 3 way divided things for popcorn. Did some rough patches first for a first layer, applied another big patch in the middle since it is entirely flat, then applied one huge piece to smooth it all out. Waiting for the resin to dry now(did this inside in a fairly well heated room, no bad smells really) and its been like 2 hrs. Any clue how much longer? I believe I might have used too little hardener, but after last time I kinda wasted a bit of it. (1/3 for like 1/16 of resin, whoops.) Will let ya know when I go to apply for 2nd time, hopefully before I go see the mother.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

It finally hardened about 6:30 (3 hours later), applied the second set of layers and resin began jelling before finished. Hopefully it will dry faster, will try to get a couple pics for you guys tomorrow. Thanks all for your help.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Here we go, this isn't much, just the lid. Did 6 layers, the flat part is actually strong, which I didn't expect. (F/G for big flat areas is bad from what I've perceived, then again, enclosures will be bigger flat spots than this most likely.)

https://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y20/MA2685/FG002.jpg

https://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y20/MA2685/FG003.jpg

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

I would try my hardest to not have a flat spot even that big in an enclosure without MDF supporting it.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Why would you do that? The rule of thumb post says to see if it gives much or any and if it doesn't it should be fine. The entire piece is very solid (Infact I've used it to hit and hit things and it hasn't been getting hurt at all.) Overall the piece is incredibly sturdy.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

If there was absolutly no way to brace a piece like that, then I would probley let it slide, but I you have a flat spot, and CAN give it a little bracing, then why not? If that piece was in an enclosure and say 7 layers thick, I'm sure it would still vibrate somewhat. Looks nice though. Is there a purpose, or where you just messing around?

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Well it was originally a screw around. But I'm gonna create a similar piece and then do a tin and then fg the pieces to together. Smooth it out a little, then apply a carpet for the kittens to tear up. :) You'd be amazed at how many stupid things like that I intend to do. Like those stupid $300 cat tower things, f that, time for some FG, wood, and carpet. Will cost me at MOST I'd say $150, 50% off, for my time, and experience, damn, that sucks, not. Anyways...

Also concerning the bracing, I'd ideally always provide  bracing when I could(Simple guideline I've got set in my head for an enclosure.) Though the vibrating I'd have to see, this thing is fairly difficult to bend with my arms. (Given I'm not applying full strength since I'm trying to use it for future and don 't wanna mess it up) but still, that's a good amount of poundage.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

If you really wanna see it I'll give you an idea of how. You can decide whether or not to take the time to do it. Cut a hole in the side of a speaker box, and then glass that sucker on the inside covering the hole. It shouldn't change the box volume, but I'm almost positive it will alter the sound.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

Ok update... I have started the next stage of the project, and whew, I tried the mat. I am not sure if I really like it, we'll see tho. I do but I don't, I'll see how it turns out I guess, just seems to have been a bit of a problem so far. I've also decided I like less hardener than more (I'm a slow person right now, might change when I get better/faster.)

Also, any tips on handling sharp curves, like that of a tin can? Given it wouldn't be so bad if both sides were flat, but the roundness of the can is making the bend kinda fisty. Found that I've had to tear it to get it to appreciate the bend more. (Which mat tears so much easier than cloth, like, I don't think I could accurately tear the cloth like I can the mat.) Still liking the cloth more though, less mess. I guess it'd help if I had a project room or a garage of my own that I didn't need to worry about mess so much. Off to get more brushes and maybe some acetone stuff.

Also, what is a good list of wood working tools for MDF enclosuers and FG projects. (I need the MDF enclosure first though in priority because I need to build standard enclosures before I touch FG projects.) Also, I was wondering, if you made an enclosure out of MDF and made the entire thing a big ball(which is great for pressure strength) would it provide any musical problems or would it just be a pretty strong set of wall? (I'm thinking make a ball enclosure then find a way to sink it into a FG piece so it has good structure against bad vibrations but still can have the appeal of flat surfaces.) If this is illogical, I'm content with MDF with FG over it to take care of the vibration problem.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

I don't understand. Did you mean to say FG ball or MDF ball? If you meant MDF, please explain. I can't picture and MDF ball. I've wanted to make a spherical enclosure for a while now but have never gotten around to it. I have a real good idea of how it could be done though.

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Nik
Jeeputer Progress
[|||||||||||-] 90%
Check it out.

FG. MDF would be possible, it just wouldn't be drastically well rounded(something that could be fixed with a layer of fg and some rounding applied) But I'd rather avoid MDF (if possible, like to keep minimal weight limits)

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm

Well the tin project failed. (Didn't release, destroyed project and tin trying to get it out.) Oh well. Tried another project with a rounded jar just to see how I like the mat still. Kinda liking it for this application(curves). I was impressed with the strength though, especially on the tin project. 3 layers, I tried beating the piss outta it with my little pos razor knife handle, man, all it did was make a couple white spots that could be fixed by a layer of FG.... That is crazy strong for 3 layers on a flat surface.

Kinda bored of this worthless projects now, I wanna really get into my trunk but the weather(snow, wtf, go away) is stopping that now.

Wanting to sound dampen my trunk then FG a casing to smooth it out, not sure yet how I'll attach it to the trunk well without having speakers or any holes in it. If I can just work on the project long enough with it off I'll go ahead and attach then FG over, or maybe leave a 6.5 hole and make a cover or something in case I want the speakers later.

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1998 Monte Carlo w/
Eclipse CD8454
2xRockford 5.25" Power 2-way T152C
2xRockford 6"x9" Punch 3-way FRC4369
1xMemphis 16-MCH1300 5-channel
2xKicker 12" L5 Solobaric-2 Ohm