I was just curious about brush size most prefer to apply finish. It seems like there are alot of topics about finishes here on RBO and alot of great advice on different finishes and different applications for the finishes...but not alot of detail on the tools used to do the actual application. Was hoping that some different builders could comment on some of the detailed info on the brushes they use and size and the speeds that they turn the blank when applying. There are so many pics of wraps that have that perfect glass smooth finish in the photo section and I think alot of beginners could use advice on how to acheive it.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/23/2006 03:11PM by Jeff Harding.

There is lots of information on finish application here. Put "spatulas", "credit cards", "playing cards", "brushes" in the search engine and select "all dates" then schedule an hour or so of free time.

RodMaker Magazine, volume 9 #1.

Regarding epoxy, a spatula is the proper application tool. Epoxies are not paints, and it would be correct to say that a brush is the wrong tool for applying epoxy. However, you can get great results with a brush, provided you do not use it to "paint" on the epoxy. Instead, load the brush with finish, lower it to the wrap, rotate the rod a full revolution, reload the brush, move over and do it again. Do not brush the epoxy on. Use the brush as an applicator tool moreso than a "paint brush."

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

I use a brush. Almost all the time, I use a Plaid brand #4 shader. This is my brush of choice mainly because it's relatively cheap ($2-3), readily available (stocked at most discount stores), and it holds its shape quite well, even after a number of uses. I clean it in Acetone after each use. It's slightly smaller than most of the wraps I'm coating, so it works well.

I'm sure spatulas are better, but I just got accustomed to using a brush. I use it in the manner that Tom describes above. So, I never really "brush" or "paint" anything.

Joe Kassuba's spatula is my perferred tool -good design and very useful. The pointed opposite end is also very handy for touching up missed spots, small bubble removal, etc.

Stan