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The Basics Of Fiberglass Fabrication - How To

How to Fabricate an Enclosure Right
By Chris Yato
Fiberglass Enclosure Top View
Fiberglass Fabrication Materials
These are the basic ingredients... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Materials
These are the basic ingredients you need when prepping a fiberglass project. Don't skimp on personal protection. When doing this sort of project you inhale a lot of styrene fumes and fiberglass dust. Always work in a well-ventilated area and use an organic vapor filter respirator. To reduce itch, wear latex gloves and protect your eyes while grinding and sanding fiberglass, and while pouring, mixing and applying resin.
Fiberglass Fabrication Materials Fiberglass Fabrication Protection
Fiberglass Fabrication Tools
Fiberglass Fabrication Demonstration Template
For this demonstration, imagine... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Demonstration Template
For this demonstration, imagine this is a spare tire well. You can use the techniques for this particular build in tire wells, passenger foot wells, storage pockets, etc.
Fiberglass Fabrication Protect With Masking Tape
Protect the entire area with... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Protect With Masking Tape
Protect the entire area with masking tape at least 3" to 6" beyond where you plan to lay fiberglass. I like to use 3M 233+ but regular 2020 or 2050 will work too. Smooth over any indented areas with additional tape and/or cardboard to make the fiberglass easier to apply and remove. Make sure that the shape doesn't have areas that may wedge in place once the fiberglass hardens.
Fiberglass Fabrication Protect With Aluminum Foil
In addition to tape, protect... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Protect With Aluminum Foil
In addition to tape, protect your form with heavy-duty aluminum foil sprayed with 3M Super 77 spray glue. The foil creates a chemical and thermal barrier that the tape cannot provide. First, mold the un-glued foil over the shape. Then, pull it back up and spray it with glue.
Fiberglass Fabrication Flatten Wrinkles
Press the foil back onto your... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Flatten Wrinkles
Press the foil back onto your shape using a wooden roller to flatten the wrinkles. Round over the edges of the wooden roller with a belt sander first to prevent sharp edges from piercing the foil. Patch any tears with smaller pieces.
Fiberglass Fabrication Add Plastic Sheeting Around Area
Place 1' to 2' of plastic... 
   
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Fiberglass Fabrication Add Plastic Sheeting Around Area
Place 1' to 2' of plastic sheeting around the area. For added protection, apply two light coats of mold release wax, Vaseline or PAM cooking spray to the foil unless the surface is vertical or inverted. Then use a permanent marker to draw on your footprint.

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