Placing Masks on Compound
Curves
Compiled by: Sally Elliot
Written: Date: May 9th, 2002
Revised: August 03, 2005
This
article has been compiled from responses to a related question on the
sandcarving Forum. Contributors to these
responses are: Tom Eddleman, Pat, Christopher and
Rob.
Ever
tried placing a mask on an object with compound curves such as a wine glass?
Not an easy task if you want a reasonable sized etching that will enhance the
glass and display your talent. Below are some tips others have used which may
help with this endeavor. One method or a combination of methods may work best
for you.
-
Firstly, keep in mind that this is a task requiring patience. Don’t try to
rush it and remember that the smaller the image is, the less the curve to
which it is subjected. Of course the real trick is finding glass without
compound curves.
- One
method is to stretch resist or put gores in it to get it to fit. The trick
is to get the gores cut in solid areas if you can. If you apply your glue to
your resist you can apply the resist with pleats in areas that are out of
the way.
- Try
getting the mask in the correct position and then burnish along a line so
that the carrier sheet will start to lift off. At this point carefully
remove the entire carrier sheet and slowly work the rest of the mask on with
your fingers by pulling and stretching it into place. If this doesn’t work,
remove the resist, wash off the glass and and
start again. Even though you hate to waste the resist, don’t take the risk
that you may have to ditch an expensive item.
-
Another approach would be to make relief cuts in the film leaving the
carrier sheet on. Start in the center and burnish only one half of the
material. Use your thumb over the carrier sheet to burnish the remaining
side while pulling the carrier sheet off the other side.
- Try
separating the mask from the carrier, and then apply it to the glass. Press
the mask down starting in the center of the art and work your way outwards.
Once all of the edges of the art are stuck down, it doesn’t matter if the
rest of the mask becomes distorted. Just tape over it.
If
you have a different method of working with compound curves that could be
added to this article, please e-mail your approach to
selliot@infozoid.com
