Make real paper conical air filters

[Ridge Rider]

I had search the web for for the size and shape filter I needed but didn't find what I was looking for,  so this is what I came up with.

Start with a paperback book and remove the cover from the front, back, and spine.

Water down some wood glue for the next step.

The pages by themselves are too thin and crushable so glue is brushed into the spine of every other page to make two pages as one.  From the spine out about a 1/4 inch of glue is all that's needed.

After this fully dries use a sharp exacto or scissors (cutting a dozen or so pages at a time) and make the book about an inch wide. This makes less paper to cut in the next step.

Mark and cut how long you want the filter.  In this case it's 3/8"

In this step I clamp and square up the 3/8" piece while pressing it against a hard surface.  After the spine is straight I sand the leftover paper off the original spine glue and mark guide lines for cutting. To get the conical shape the cut needs to angle slightly and start about 1/16" on the short side.

With a very sharp blade I slightly rock the blade and put downward pressure.  Don't rush this and watch the reference cut lines on both sides.

It can/will take many attempts to get the hang of it and the right look of the cone.  When I have one I'm happy with I superglue the edge to .080" rod and let it cure.

 

I then carefully wrap it around the rod and cut to length.  When I'm happy with the fit I superglue the rest and wrap for the last time.  The filter can be capped and colored to fit your needs.  In my case I needed a skull detail on the cap and colored the filter with India Ink.

It's not the easiest thing to do but it does look good for 1/25 scale filters.

Now for things I learned.  Not all books and glue are created equal.  Hardbacks and books with thicker paper don't work well.  Lightly used 200 page paperbacks work best.  Some books are created using about 16 pages at a time-start the every other page gluing process between 2 such sections to prevent odd spacing when wrapping around the rod.  I used 5 different books to find the right look and spine glue.  If you try it feel free to add your experience and tips as well.  I will try to answer any questions  if I can.  Good luck.  Steve  

Edited July 10, 2017 by Ridge Rider
photos

[BigTallDad]

Great idea, execution, and tutorial!

[jeffs396]

NICE!!!

[Ridge Rider]

Thank you Ray and Jeff !  I hope it inspires someone to expanded on the idea and contribute their knowledge as well.  We will all be better builders with contributions.

[Dave Ambrose]

That's very clever. I'm totally gonna steal your method.

[dragstk]

That is a great idea! Thanks for showing us how you did it. Im off to find a book