I know the idea of labelling a rod using printed address labels has been talked to death, and I've read up on all the other threads here about it, so I'm not asking to bring up the whole discussion again.

Basically, I'm going to try it. My research I see says to epoxy over the label, and not to use rod varnish. My question for those of you who have done this-- what kind of epoxy can I use? The only epoxy I have on hand is Flexcoat Rodbuilders Epoxy Glue, but the threads about this mention using lighter epoxies. I don't know much about epoxy, aside from using it to glue handles on and stuff. Can someone maybe provide some insight towards how I should approach epoxying over a label like this?

Thanks!

Hi Scott,
Don't use the glue, you need finish epoxy which is a different animal. Flexcoat high or lite build will be fine. Varnish days for rod finish are almost gone with only the traditional bamboo rods getting it. If you have trouble with the two pack stuff Threadmaster now has a one part finish which doesn't need mixing and is said to be good but you need around three coats instead of the usual one or two. You can read articles in the libray on using the two part finish and it's not that difficult if you follow the instructions.

ESFNEM Col
Port Kembla, NSW
Australia

Thanks Col, that's exactly what I needed to hear. Glad you guys are here to help so quickly.

I was surprised to hear that varnish isn't getting used very much anymore, since it's what came in a newbie rod kit I used for my first build last month. I had just assumed that it was the only way to do the threads so I didn't really research it further. I'll use the varnish for the threads on my current build since I don't have time to order the epoxy finish, but it looks like I'm going to have to get that for my future builds. As for the labels, sounds like there's not much I can do for this build, maybe next time.

Thanks again!
Scott

Hi Scott,
You'll get a much nicer and smoother finish with the two pack stuff and it will last a lot longer. Adds to the binding strength as well.

ESFNEM Col
Port Kembla, NSW
Australia

Scott,

You will most likely will need to cover the label with something before appling the epoxy, so the printer ink does not smear. I have used Krylon Crystal Clear or Fixative, (Sp?), with great results. A couple of light coats, allowing about 10-20 minutes before applying the second coat to the label.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/19/2012 10:03AM by Donald R Campbell.

Donald R has it right, but going further, I suggest you try Papilio's waterproof white vinyl media instead of paper labels. Use matte photo paper printer settings, and you'l get great labels/decals. It sitll needs the Donald R fixative.