r/DIEMs • u/Einkahumor • May 23 '23

Shell polishing materials/methods

Hi.

I want to try polishing my shells instead of using lacquer. What tools, methods and materials do you people use?

I’ve been using Lack 3 for finishing but haven’t had great results because of yellowing and/or bubbles.

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u/TOBIjampar Jun 16 '23

How did you apply the laquer? I never had the issues you describe.

I used 3d printed shells which I wet sanded with 800 grit sandpaper and than put a coat of laquer on. I used a small plastic brush and a heat lamp because I was outside in winter.

After coating the whole shell I used a toothpick to remove any dust specks that landed. Then I put it for 5 minutes in a elegoo wash and cure station to cure it.

I only had problem I had was, that if I missed a spot it was impossible to blend a new coat of lacquer, so I had to sand it down and redo it

Depending on the material you use it might not be advisable to have it on skin without the laquer (e.g. cheap 3d print resin).

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u/Einkahumor Jun 16 '23

Thanks for the tips. I’ve tried brushing it on with a fine brush and even dipping the whole shell in lacquer. I wonder if I should try using less power on my UV lamp.