alamocdc
Member
I've been questioned about my technique for dipping barrels in lacquer. First, this is not my technique. I got it from Russ Fairfield's pages referenced on our homepage. In short, I bought a few 3' lengths of 1/4" all thread and cut them to desired lengths... depending on the pens I turn. Make sure to add a few inches for insurance. I also bought a number of different 1/4" fixtures: threaded inserts, nylon bushings, etc. to try and get a variety of widths. These will be used as bushings/spacers above and below the barrels to allow the lacquer to flow smoothly down the assembly while it's drying. This is an Afzelia Burl Sierra barrel w/the first coat.
I've also turned dipping bushings/spacers using 7mm tube and a variety of materials. Make sure the transition from the barrels to the spacers is as flush as possible. Otherwise you'll get a lip or bulge of lacquer at the bottm. If I'm not satisfied with the fit at the ends, I'll seal the tubes w/base plate wax. Dip the barrels and set them up to dry and cure. If I'm happy w/the look of the first coat, I'll dip a 2nd in a day or so and let the blank(s) cure for at least a week before wet sanding w/MM.
Although I don't show it here, I have a 2x4 w/holes drilled in it to stand the assemblies in. Just make sure the holes aren't so sloppy that they let the assembly lean or you'll get an uneven coat.
I've also turned dipping bushings/spacers using 7mm tube and a variety of materials. Make sure the transition from the barrels to the spacers is as flush as possible. Otherwise you'll get a lip or bulge of lacquer at the bottm. If I'm not satisfied with the fit at the ends, I'll seal the tubes w/base plate wax. Dip the barrels and set them up to dry and cure. If I'm happy w/the look of the first coat, I'll dip a 2nd in a day or so and let the blank(s) cure for at least a week before wet sanding w/MM.
Although I don't show it here, I have a 2x4 w/holes drilled in it to stand the assemblies in. Just make sure the holes aren't so sloppy that they let the assembly lean or you'll get an uneven coat.