Casting stamp blanks

[RetiredJake]

I recently cast a Purple Heart stamp blank, came out pretty good. Since then, nothing but issues. My last attempt resulted in what looked like glossy spots in places on the stamps, I'm guessing those are air pockets trapped under the stamps and held in place by the pressure from the pot.

My process: paint tube to match stamp background color (spray enamel); attach stamps; coat with Modge Podge; cast in Alumilite.

I'm thinking I need to switch to a spray acrylic paint and to pressure soak the stamps/tube to squeeze out any air prior to coating and casting.

Anyone have any help to offer?

TIA
Jake

 

[PTownSubbie]

How long are you waiting to cast after you apply the Modge Podge? You should wait 24-48 hours to allow the modge podge to fully cure. Alumilte HATES WATER and modge podge is water based (I think)....

I usually use CA to seal the stamps rather than Modge Podge...just the way I do things......

 

[SDB777]

No pressure needed for the one's I've been doing. One coat of MPodge and wait at least 24-36hours before thinking about casting them and you should get great results.

Just be sure to seal the ends after trimming to keep water from wet-sanding from getting under them.




Scott (pens for the troops winner these are) B

 

[commercialbuilder]

You might want to try spraying the blank with clear acrylic from Krylon instead of the mpodge, I have had good luck with it. I usually sparay two coats and it dries really fast.

 

[RetiredJake]

I have not been waiting 24 hours, that will be step # 1. I have not been sealing the ends, step # 2. I will also give a try at sealing with CA and the clear Krylon.

Thanks,
Jake