I'll be starting my bodywork soon and would like some advice on tools and cleaning them.

In the past, I've always made small things so haven't been too bothered. Even using proper acetone brush cleaner, I've never managed to clean a brush so that it was any good the second time I used it or was even a brush after the second use. I got to spreading resin with mixing sticks as they could be wiped clean enough to use again and again.

My new bodywork will be much bigger than previous projects and so I'll probably need to apply resin with a roller to get a single piece covered and layed up within the potting time. How do I clean the wooly roller thing properly, or is it a new one every time?

I just used to buy the cheapest brushes I could find....CFS sell some cheap ones if you buy in bulk...

Throw them in the bin when you are done, its easier, quicker and proberably cheaper than using acetone!

Acetone is what you need to clean the tools and can be supplied by the firm you buy yor fibre glass from. I bought a 5 litre tin and the price is very reasonable. Surprisingly, it is not a problem for the carriers who deliver it in the normal way.

I'll be happy to look out an address for you if need be.

John

I couldn't get more than one use out the brushes even after cleaning them, just bought a heap of cheap ones, that and tons of disposable gloves

I've just found the address of the firm I used. It is CFS and their service was excellent. Website: http://www.cfsnet.co.uk/home.html

They do a full range of rollers and all tools that are acetone resistant and therefore cleanable.

Best of luck with your project.

John

I use acetone , then wash brushes and rollers in ordinary biological detergent - then if I know I wont be using them for some time I rub them on a bar of soap ( that will keep them in good nick for months on the shelf ) .

think it was tesco who were doing cheap paint brushes. 5 for £1 or something.

http://www.whdirect.co.uk/home.php?cat=282

If your buying a few bits then the £8 postage isn't such a kick in the knackers.

I used cheap brushes from the "pound" shops.
For my metal roller (helps push out air) I used acetone.

Ever emptied a gallon of unused resin into a plastic bucket after it’s started to set?

Very exciting so long as it's not in the garage

If you are in Birmingham use Polyfibre. See Mike he is most helpful.

http://www.polyfibre.co.uk/Polyfibre%20Price%20List.pdf