I just glued a snake skin with color preserver in a split grip. Can I or should I apply a light coat of epoxy finish before I put on the trim wraps then come back with CP and additional coats of epoxy? I suspsect I'll have a tough time wrapping evenly over the scales with A thread if I don't, but I'm not sure.

I always put a thin coat of finish on. It's also much easier to do it before you put the grips on.

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Eric, that will work. Don't be afraid to put two thin coats on if you need to. Some skin has scales that really stick up and will need more than one coat to get a smooth surface to wrap on.

jeremy

You need multiple layers of CP on the EXTERIOR of the skin before you hit it with any epoxy finish. CP leaves enough of a coating for wraps, IMO.

The very edge of the skin often becomes the tricky / delicate spot for a nice smooth transition for the wrap. It takes a little more time and some calm TLC but I carefully, very lightly, feather scalpel( # 11 scalpel and mask the blank) the skin right at the edge (similar to file and prep for a guide foot prior to wrapping). This makes the thread wrap over the edge very easy.

Steve,

Just to be clear, you are feathering the edge of the scales/skin on the topside after gluing on the blank? Where can I get a scalpel?

Thanks

Yes. Very carefully tapering the edge. And I mask the blank. Any medical supply store usually has scalpels and blades. If you are not close to a medical supply store, jump on the internet and type in 'Medical Scalpels'. Many stores supply them and I find the # 11 blade to the best all around for Rod Work. They are an invaluable tool for many of the little delicate tasks of custom rod building. Also, a 'Used Scalpel' blade is still often sharper than a good pocket knife blade that has been sharpened. I make a little tool that easily allows a used scalpel blade to be taped into it and that tool is used for rough scrub work.... then I discard the blade. Remember to be very careful and calm with scalpels and no 'Corona'!

Jim`s reminder of CP is a must.

An Exacto knife will be good to use .

Go to Mud Holes catalog, there should be very good instructions, if not try their website.

Bill

Ohio Rod Builders

Canton, Ohio