[bhorlings]

So I finished shaping my split grip last night and went to put the epoxy finish on it. I got an American Tackle kit that a local store had.

1. I put 3ml of each together and mixed everything up for a few minutes.
2. Then I let it set for a few minutes.
3. Then I mixed some more for a few minutes.
4. I added some Testors paint to it and mixed again.
5. I then proceeded to coat my road.
6. For the next two hours I turned the rod every 3 minutes.
7. Then I turned it every 10 minutes.
8. After that I gave it one last turn and went to bed (that was 1 AM this morning).

When I woke up this morning I went to check the rod to see if it had cured. It was still tacky. I know probably put too thick of a coating on also (since it was my first time). My question is... Is it still tacky because I did not mixed everything properly, because it has not fully cured yet because it was too thick or some other reason?

Second question is... how to get rid of the finger print mark now?

[Vodkaman]

I don't know for sure, but because of the oils and acids in your skin, it is possible that the print may remain visible, but probably only to you.

My suggestion is that you sign your masterpiece, over the thumb print. If anyone does see the print, you could say that it is for authentication.

[bhorlings]

Great idea. I just hope it is fully cured when I get home.

[Spike-A-Pike]

One of the rod making gurus will jump in soon (,I hope)... I would think that after it's finished cooking, you can lightly sand it put a light top coat on it. My best guess. Although, the Vman's idea is is very original and would truly make it a custom. Just make sure you customize every rod in the future the same way...

[shfishinsticks]

I've never used AmTak finish, so I'm not farmiliar with the cure time. If your workspace is less than 70*, it will take longer than normal to cure.

Did you pour all the solvent off the Testors before you mixed it in? That could be the reason for the slow cure. Possibly, you used too much pigment, also adding to the cure time. For epoxy, application thickness has no effect on cure.

As for the fingerpring, we've all done it at one time or another! Next time, stick your thumb on the leftover stuff to see if it's cured, not the rod.

[thedude]

its hard to check without messing up the finish, but if its "gummy" you probably used too much pigment or got too much solvent in with the epoxy. It just takes a small drip for 3mils. If thats the case, it might never dry - i did this on a test blank about 2 months ago and its still tacky/gummy. Good news is its easy to scrape off and do-over if its gummy.

you can always try to let it sit for a week in the warmest spot in your house and check it then. Once (if) it dries, you can add another coat of regular finish to cover up the thumb print if it is too noticeable for you.

[bhorlings]

It was a lot harder this morning than when I went to bed so I hope it dries. I did add like three drops and did not separate out the pigment from the solvent. It was not that sticky just left by finger print mark when I touched it firmly.

Any options for getting the sticky coat off? Could I just scrap it with a heat gun and a razor?

[shfishinsticks]

I think the solvent was the issue. Plastic knife and a hair dryer will remove it just fine, especially if it's still soft.

[stream stalker]

Since "the dude" turned me onto this split grip thing, I have now completed four rods as of last night. Gotta tell you I am starting to get good at this! And fast too! Couple of things I have learned:


I tried a few different options when it came to heat source for softening the glue. What i found that worked best was one of those trigger lighters with the long shaft. You can direct the heat right where you want it. Works like a charm. Secondly, even though the rest of you are using actual epoxy designed for fishing rods, the Devcon 5 minute epoxy sold at Wal Mart works great!!!! Also, when you squirt it out, equal parts epoxy and hardener come out together. No bubbles and a nice clear finish. I will post some pics as soon as i can

[Mattman]

Typically...a good coat of finish over the top of a tacky coat will push the tacky finish into fully curing.

For every 20° over or under 70° you either double or halve your cure time. Although you appear to have gone past the time when it should have set up on you.

You could try pushing the cure with heat. A hair dryer on warm. Something in the 90° - 110° range.

Not familiar with your brand of finish so...