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Cleaning up epoxy.

Joined
Jul 9, 2011
Messages
2
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0
Location
Winthrop, Wa
I sometimes use Epoxy for fill or glue up. Recently its been to glue a finished wood sleeve on to a coffee mug liner, Cleaning up excess without damaging the finish can be a challenge. On a Kayak building forum there was a thread on cleaning up epoxy with white vinegar. Apparently the acid breaks up the long hydrocarbon molecules that make up the components. Well it works great on the 50/50 epoxies I often use and I know the kayak builders use 4:1 epoxies. The cleanup might be a bit slower but it doesn't harm the finish and my hands are happier.
 
Joined
Jan 24, 2010
Messages
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900
Location
Cleveland, Tennessee
I build custom fishing rods and use two part epoxies on the grips and reel seats. I started with denatured alcohol and was told that you can get 91% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) a lot cheaper. I found it at Walmart. Either one works great.
 

john lucas

AAW Forum Expert
Joined
Apr 26, 2004
Messages
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Location
Cookeville, TN
I use denatured alcohol to clean up the excess before it hardens. After it hardens I can usually pop it off the already finished wood with a sharp tool.
 
Joined
Jan 18, 2006
Messages
87
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2
Location
VA
As an aside, paste wax will prevent epoxy from sticking. Just apply it, either leave as is or buff. Great release agent for rifle bedding and turned corn cob holders...........:)

Rich
 
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