I always use NCP thread and metallic threads for design wraps. I have read on a number of sites that the colors on non NCP thread with CP comes out much nicer than with the NCP thread So I decided to experiment on some old rods of mine. I tried two different brandsof CP and followed the directions. On both of the rods, the designs were open wraps and I got some CP on the blanks where the designs were open. when finished the epoxy looked cloudy. The only two times that the epoxy ever did this to me were on the 2 rods I tried color preserver on . The directions said apply liberally and allow to dry in between coats. allow the final coat to dry overnight. Did the epoxy cloud up on me because I got some CP on the blank where the wraps were open ? Thanks in advance for all input.

I've had that happen when I used black NCP thread and CP. Now I only use regular black thread in my crosswraps and weaves where I have to use CP. I have not noticed any haziness on other NCP threads. In a weave, I will use regular thread for the dark colors and NCP for the whites and yellows and then coat the design with CP.

General (your) cloudiness is likely caused by insufficient cure time of the CP. They all tell you "apply liberally" and "allow to dry between coats" but are rather non-specific on what is "liberal" how long that should be. To me "liberally" means a flood coat (allow it to flow evenly over the wraps or "saturate the threads". Best to leave it in a warm, dry space for at least 8 hours (better longer) between coats. In my experience black NCP really looks more like dark blue when coated - that makes it appear "cloudy" or "not black as black".

Frank,
There is a 3rd option. Use NON NCP thread, and use no CP.

i.e. use plain nylon thread wiht no CP.

I think that the colors are much brighter and look much more natural with this technique.

But, everyone has different wishes with respect to the look of their rods.

Roger

Thanks for the input. That was my first post on this site. I guess i was asking spicifically if it is ok to get color preserver on the blank in the open spaces on an open design ?

Yes - you can get the CP on the blank. It will not affect the epoxy at all.