Hi,
I want to build some cork composite grips. Therefore I would like to work with thin rings (e.g. 0.1'' - 0.15'') of cork , burl cork and pressed cork. How can I sand my rings (usually 0.25'' or 0.5'' thick) both sides parallel without having special tools?
Thanks.
Stefan

To get rings that thin, I would think going with gasket material would be a better solution. I have heard of many guys using that and it can be found in many different colors.

Try using cork gasket material. It's available in various thicknesses from auto supply stores.

Buy a flush-cut saw. Buy or make a jig to cut 1/8 and/or 1/4 in. thick rings. If you make the jig you can make any thickness rings you want. You can get three 1/8 in. or one 1/4 & one 1/8 in. ring from one 1/2 in. ring. Ralph

If at first you don't succeed, go fishing, then try, try again.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/16/2005 07:43AM by Ralph Jones.

This was covered in the last issue of RodMaker, You can make the vacuum cork cutting jig outlined in the article and cut rings of any thickness you desire.

Or.. substitute such things as those mentioned above - cork gasket material, rubber or foam sheets, etc.

............

Stefan
My method--actually suggested here first by Andy Dear---is to mount a regular cork ring on a mandrel and on a wood lathe. Secure the ring with bees wax so it won't spin on the mandrel when you work it. Get it spinning. Trim and true up each flat face with a fine, sharp parting tool so it doesnt wobble. You can then cut perfect, thin rings by shearing slowing with the parting tool. Remember to use gradual force as not flex or deform the cork as you cut. If this is unclear, email me.

Best,

Josh Markvan
www.markvanheirloom.com

Cut a ring to an 1/8 inch with one of the above methods, glue the "true side to a 1/2 peice of cork so that you have something to grab and sand the thin cork to desired thickness....

If you use Joshua's(Andy"s) method, you'll waste less cork if you either buy a 1/16" parting tool or make one from an old butter knife. Standard parting tools are either 1/8" or 3/32" thick so you waste a lot of material. I made one from an old butter knife and use it on hardwood.

A jeweler's saw, being careful to keep it perpendicular to the rotating cork.
Stan