Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
I'm pretty good with my hands, but my first attempt with fiberglass was a disaster. I spent about $150 in materials to make a mold of a kitchen sink, and had nothing but problems. Problems with bubbles, problems with getting the glass to conform to the contour of the sink, problems with the epoxy setting up too quickly, problems with the glass wanting to stick to my hands more than the sink, problems getting the PVA to coat uniformly, etc.
I'd hate to think how difficult fabricating a part more complex than a sink would be. I wasn't even attempting to make a sink; only needed to obtain the negative image of the sink so I could use it as a form in a concrete counter-top/sink.
I also once tried to repair a crack in the plastic fairing of my motorcycle with fiberglass, and that sucked too. I'm done trying to work with the evil substance. 3D printing for the win.
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I worked at my Uncle's body shop when I was 12 and have been working with steel, aluminum and plastics since then. I have worked in the trades and continue to dive into the "dirty stuff" because I enjoy it and have a knack for it.
However, with that being said, with the right guidance and training, most anyone can perform basic mold making and part layup in their own garage. It just takes some thought, technique and patience. Nothing untoward. Modern materials and techniques make it even easier.
My late mother often made fun of the fact that anything you need to know about anything could be found on YouTube. Fiber Reinforced construction is one of them. I urge you to get out and try - something smaller than the kitchen sink though!