TDE
Member
Which ca do you use for a finish on pens? I keep looking at the glue boost ,but I haven't decided. I see a lot of woodworkers use starbond.
ca glue
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mg_dreyer
Member
I have used them all. For me GluBoost is the easiest and most forgiving consistent finish out there. Four to five coats and you get a spectacular finish. If you have any question about it just PM me. I have been using it since it started as a pen finish. The finish was originally a high end musical instrument repair finish so it is flexible and buffs to a spectacular shine.
Here is my technique
10 Minutes To Better Penmaking - GluBoost
Here is my technique
10 Minutes To Better Penmaking - GluBoost
JohnU
Member
I'm a Gluboost fan also. I've used most of the other brands but this just works easier for me with less sanding and no cracking later, plus I get a longer shelf life with Gluboost. There's 3 different consistencies for the job on hand and you don't need much. I also use it on my alumilite clear cast blank pens. 4 layers of the ultra thin and then micro mesh is quicker and a better shine than the naked resin. Also, my local Woodcraft carries it on the shelf if get in a pinch and don't have time to order it but I can usually get it within 2 days from Exoticblanks, except during the holiday season when USPS is backed up.
leehljp
Member Liaison
While CA is "glue" as you said, it has found numerous applications such as stitch replacement in some surgeries, as a fast setting adhesive, and as a hard surface as on pens and musical instruments. Over the years, a few companies make their brand of CA to more specifically address the needs of special use. Glue Boost makes their CA line to more specifically address the "finish" aspect as on musical instruments and pens. They address this on their website. I appreciate the fact that they recognize the pen turning industry's use of CA as a "Finish" instead of just a "glue".
Yes, many of the other brands do well as a finish, but GluBoost users who have used others before - almost all like the extra qualities in that brand.
That said, the Mercury Flex, as Darios mentioned, does offer some qualities that have helped me and others in special situations and conditions. I didn't realize that GluBoost was flexible as Mark Dryer mentioned. Flex in a finish helps when certain woods have a miniscule expansion and contraction during humidity and temperature swings more than other woods. Expansion and contraction in some environments can cause cracks in either the wood or finish. Flex allow for this expansion and contraction more than non-expanding glues. Nature WILL win 99% of the time. Flex allows for this in most cases, but don't put pens in a window or the seat of a closed car.
Yes, many of the other brands do well as a finish, but GluBoost users who have used others before - almost all like the extra qualities in that brand.
That said, the Mercury Flex, as Darios mentioned, does offer some qualities that have helped me and others in special situations and conditions. I didn't realize that GluBoost was flexible as Mark Dryer mentioned. Flex in a finish helps when certain woods have a miniscule expansion and contraction during humidity and temperature swings more than other woods. Expansion and contraction in some environments can cause cracks in either the wood or finish. Flex allow for this expansion and contraction more than non-expanding glues. Nature WILL win 99% of the time. Flex allows for this in most cases, but don't put pens in a window or the seat of a closed car.
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jttheclockman
Member
Big fan for many years of Satellite City brand. Have for many years. Is one better than another? That has been debated for as many years. Good luck.
TDE
Member
Well, sounds like I will make the jump to Glu Boost. I don't have a problem with my ca finish although I'm willing to give it a try. I don't turn a lot of pens but when I do I want it to look as good as possible. Thanks for the quick reply's. It never ceases me how helpful this site is. It's a little early but I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Don't forget the reason for the season!
I used most of them, then jumped on the GB wagon (about $600 worth over 2 years - I even won a bottle or two). Now I am back to mercury flex. I also liked the EZ bond when I first started. I have several pens in my draw for over 9 years with it. No cracking, hazing, yellowing (maybe b/c they are in the dark most of the time). GB was very good, just found it less forgiving then Mercury. It may also be my technique; don't know.