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Tube in label casting.

Scott

Full Member
Joined
Sep 17, 2018
Posts
27
Location
Bournemouth
First Name
Scott
I apologise if this has already been asked loads of times, but what Is needed for casting labels on tube in blanks ?

Obviously a mold of some sort with the bungs, but what labels are used and can both Epoxy and polyester be used ?
I’ve done a google and YouTube search there are lots of how to’s but I can’t find anything about the actual labels.

Thank you.
 

Paul hd

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Jun 12, 2016
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1,299
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Buckinghamshire
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Paul
From recent research.
If I were to try out label printing I would go with waterproof printable self adhesive labels and a high res printer.
 

Bucks

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Apr 26, 2016
Posts
1,425
Location
North Yorkshire
First Name
Paul
Hi Scott, I make & sell a large range of quality silicone casting moulds including our “Less-Resin” mould’s which are specifically for tube & label casting. They are available from our website www.penblanksandmoulds.co.uk.

I haven’t done any actual label casting myself, just stamps & other tube in casting, so I’m no expert on the matter of labels.

With regards to resin, both Epoxy & Polyester would be suitable, but if using Epoxy you would need a pressure pot & compressor to make bubble free casts. Also I’ve read that Epoxy resins yellow over time so I’m not sure how that would look on label casts in the long term, there is also clear polyurethane resin but that is very expensive & would also need a pressure pot. I know polyester resin absolutely stinks & can be a little brittle & chippy for inexperienced turners, but in my opinion it is the most suitable resin for long term quality clear casts, and on the plus side it’s the cheapest resin out there & doesn’t need a pressure pot.
 

Gadget-UK

Graduate Member
Joined
May 18, 2018
Posts
847
Location
Nr Blandford Forum. Dorset. UK
First Name
Colin
I use Photo Paper (Sticky Backed).
100 Sheets A4 Self Adhesive Glossy Photo Paper: High gloss white photo paper, waterproof, compatible with inkjet and photo printers by GO Inkjet: Amazon.co.uk: Office Products

Then seal with Modge Podge (sp?)
Mod Podge 8 oz Waterbase Sealer, Glue and Finish, Gloss: Amazon.co.uk: Kitchen & Home

Aluminite Clear Cast Resin and then into a Pressure Pot
http://houseofresin.co.uk/alumilite-amazing-clear-cast-epoxy-resin-7-5-litres-2-us-gallons-8-5kg/

So far they have turned out really well though DO NOT forget the coat them as I have found the resin attacks the glue and they come unstuck resulting in a nice clear cast Brass Tube and a picture floating around :sob:

One of my previous picture pens...

il_570xN.1642258900_140v.jpg
I am casting some more at the moment so hopefully they will turn out ok :praying:

Hope that helps :thinks:
 

Scott

Full Member
Joined
Sep 17, 2018
Posts
27
Location
Bournemouth
First Name
Scott
Thank you.
I have been looking at your moulds.
I’ve just set up a pressure pot. So will be in touch when funds allow.
 
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