Clear Coat for lens

[CrazyGirl]

I did a search and could not find anything , so , for gauge lens I know folks use epoxy , but can testors clear coat be used also

[Eshaver]

Yes, Clear enamel can be used too....................

[Blown03SVT]

Clear epoxy, clear enamel, and even Future I have heard of being used. Different effect with each one. Epoxy "domes" while the clear enamel and Future tend to level out on flatter gauge surfaces.

[crazyjim]

I've been using Modge Podge from Hobby Lobby after it was suggested here.

[CrazyGirl]

ok thanks guys , I used the testors enamel , used tubing to hold them upright , I figure about 2 years of building at this rate lol

[Blown03SVT]

Crazy Jim, I just went and searched the Modge Podge... I might grab some of this sometime. Looks similar to epoxy with out the mixing making things a little easier/quicker.

[crazyjim]

The stuff is good, Eric. No mixing involved. Just squirt a little onto the gauge and let it dry.

[MikeyB08]

If you ever get in a pinch, you can make your own modge podge by using 1 part white glue and 1 part water. You can adjust accordingly to make thicker or more liquid base.

[Mooneyzs]

Anne.... the best stuff for gauge lens is Microscale's Micro Kristal Klear. this is basically like elmers white glue but much better and dries completely clear. I have been using this method for years and have never been disappointed with it.

[gtx6970]

Elmers clear school glue works pretty well as well

[David G.]

I use artist's gloss medium. It's essentially heavy acrylic paint sans pigment.

David G.

[Danno]

Anne.... the best stuff for gauge lens is Microscale's Micro Kristal Klear. this is basically like elmers white glue but much better and dries completely clear. I have been using this method for years and have never been disappointed with it.

What Chris said. Micro Kristal Klear is the money for this.

[AzTom]

What Chris said. Micro Kristal Klear is the money for this.

Cool, How thick can this be poured? I'm making some lens in a rubber mold.

[Danno]

Cool, How thick can this be poured? I'm making some lens in a rubber mold.

Tom,

It can go as deep as you need it as long as you have containment (guage face & bezel/trim). The thicker you pour it, the longer it takes to cure (obviously) but overnight is always plenty of time. The sweet thing is it's just like Elmer's in that it goes in/on white opaque, but cures/dries clear, so you can tell when it's done.

It's a little thicker in viscosity than Elmer's and it cures clearer IMHO.

[AzTom]

Tom,

It can go as deep as you need it as long as you have containment (guage face & bezel/trim). The thicker you pour it, the longer it takes to cure (obviously) but overnight is always plenty of time. The sweet thing is it's just like Elmer's in that it goes in/on white opaque, but cures/dries clear, so you can tell when it's done.

It's a little thicker in viscosity than Elmer's and it cures clearer IMHO.

Thanks, I'll have try that.

I bought some of the clear epoxy but the amount is so small it wouldn't cure. I had success with the clear that you use over acid etched floors but I used it up and don't want another Gal.

Tom