Need recommendations for Resin(s) for Hybrid Bowls

[Larryreitz]

The last couple of years have been difficult as I had been the primary caretaker for my wife of 55 years. She passed recently and I expect to have more time to clean up the shop and get back to turning. Due to my own health I am going to give up outdoor shows where I have to haul and set up a tent. That leaves smaller indoor shows in school gyms which I am confident I can handle. These shows typically don't move high priced pens as people are mostly looking for gifts and unless it's for a loved one are not going to pay for a well done roller ball. I have started to replenish my inventory o Trimlines and will probably add some slimlines to the inventory.

All that being said, I am thinking about adding some small bowls. I want to do wood /resin composite hybrids. My major question is what kind of resin would the bowl turners here recommend. I have watched John Underhill's videos and followed an English fellow named David on Facebook. John is a great teacher, but has not made resin recommendations on his videos, at least those I have watched multiple times.

I am guessing Alumilite Clear or some brand of deep pour epoxy. I appreciate any feedback. Thanks in advance.

Larry Reitz

 

[JohnU]

Hi Larry, I'm very sorry to hear about your wife passing. My deepest condolences.

As for the resin for hybrids, I would suggest Alumilite Clear Slow. It will cure slower which is necessary for larger or deeper pours, so the resin doesn't crack. Unfortunately it will require the use of a pressure tank to help reduce air bubbles in the finished cast because urethane resins create a gas during its curing which makes bubbles in the resin. The pressure will compress them so you can't see them. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

 

[Larryreitz]

Hi Larry, I'm very sorry to hear about your wife passing. My deepest condolences.

As for the resin for hybrids, I would suggest Alumilite Clear Slow. It will cure slower which is necessary for larger or deeper pours, so the resin doesn't crack. Unfortunately it will require the use of a pressure tank to help reduce air bubbles in the finished cast because urethane resins create a gas during its curing which makes bubbles in the resin. The pressure will compress them so you can't see them. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Thanks so much, john. You are the best!. I've been making pens with urethane resin for some time so I have a pressure pot. Now it's time to start cleaning up the work area.

 

[Mortalis]

Personally I have not gotten into hybrid bowls but, hybrid is about all my brother makes and turns. He used total Boat for quite a while then started using something different. I will try to find out what that was.

My condolences to you about your wife. Good luck with your new smaller shows.