Casting Fabric In A Blank

[crokett]

Assuming I wanted to try casting fabric into a blank, would it be something like glue it to the tube, then cast in clear with the tube in place? How are pens like the braided steel done?

 

[plantman]

There are several way to add fabric to your pen depending on how you want the end result to look. If you want a smooth look, just glue the fabric to the tube. Keep it smooth and try to match up the pattern and seam. If you want to make it a little more dimentional look, ruffle up the fabric. Use any glue that will dry clear. CA will not give you the working time you need to set your fabric. Tacky Glue works good for this operation. Cast as you would any other material. Braided steels are slid on the tubes and thin CA flooded into the weave. Leave the braid long on both ends, and disk sand off the extra when cured. Add more coats of thick CA to build up depth, or cast the blank. Be careful with the braid, as it is usualy stainless steel, the same as a needle. Use safety glasses when trimming ends. Copper braid is more forgiving, and doesn't hurt as much if you prick your finger. Braid can be found at auto suppy stores or hardware stores. Jim S

 

[Displaced Canadian]

I've layered the fabric and used epoxy and clamped it in a vise to remove any voids in the blank.