Just about to build my first pair, and could do with some tips
having watched the video, its clear that i need some layers that do not bond to epoxy, Please could someone tell me some or a material that doesnt, and where i can go buy it from (im in the UK)?!
How much epoxy (as a estimate) will i need per pair of skis, need to order from interntet and have no clue !!!
for my first pair im going for a conventional twin tip (not going to put ABS tips or tails on it) save that for the next pair!!
any tips on lay up etc would be awesome!!
Building and desinging a press is the challenge for this weekend!1
Hey Tom, I'm new here too but it seems to me that all of these areas are covered on this forum somewhere . I used the search button with excellent results, these guys in here are giants!
yeah searching will do wonders, but I'll give you some quick tips.
It's much easier if you put a topsheet down of some sort, instead of just a layer to peel off leaving an epoxy surface. You can use tons of different things for top sheets. Check out the store, be creative, etc. If you just want something to project the ski during the layup and keep epoxy off your mold, we use parchment paper. Doesn't stick to epoxy at all and can take the heat just fine.
You'll want more epoxy than you need. Its better to have extra than not enough. I can't remember how much we mix up per pair, but its on the order of 500g total I think? I honestly can't remember, just buy a gallon.
You will actually have an easier time if you get tip spacer material, rather than having the wood core go all the way to the tips. It's more difficult bending the wood into the tips, you can pre-bend the tip spacer. Others may have other opinions, but I think for a first pair it'll be easier for you.
Be prepared for mistakes. Your first pair won't turn out great, but after a few pairs things will start to click. It's a steep learning curve, but worth it.
Building the press can be the biggest challenge of the entire process. Do you have an idea of what you're going to build? This can also be the most dangerous part too, if your press isn't built right bad things can happen.
based near brighton on south coast, but study at loughborough in the midlands
intersting commenta about tip spacers, i will look into finding material, having a bit of a chore trying to access goos sorces of materials in the UK as dont really wanna pay for delivery from the states
for the press was going to go for a one based on the skibuilders how to section, i have access to a industrial grade fabrication shop so should not be a problem...
What kind of press are you building - one that takes a weekend will be popular
Searching the forum is mandatory ... don't take it the wrong way. To be honest, steering your own project is part of the fun it will save you time in the long run!
If you get stuck with finding supplies give me a shout and I'll point you in the right direction. I can send you a set of ABS tipspacers if this is the only thing stopping you using them?
Anyway, 'tips'... post photo's, it the best way of getting feedback!
I'd overdo the glue on your first sets; 30-40 fluid oz shoudl comfortably do it and leave you spare. If you have a fast-catalyzing epoxy, you may wnat to considor using two cups until you get comfortable with timing etc., Add harderner to one cup, use it, then add the rest to the second cup. That way you can take your time and not panic!
going to make the template 2mm at ends and 12mm in the middle, probably from poplar
what sort of a curve should i aim for on the base, as im expecting to loose some on demould, should i over compensate?
what sort of valves are people using on their fire hose? not sure im 100% happy with mine, where can you buy the style in the howto section from (in the uk)
. I used the search button with excellent results, these guys in here are giants!