Face coat types?

Aside from molding and vacforming (which is going well so far), I am also trying to learn a bit about resins, gelcoats, and fiberglass.

I've been reading about several methods used for the face coat before fiberglass reinforcement.

I've always been unclear as to what my helmet was made of. It was fiberglass inside, but the outside was a bit softer, more matte and more sandable than other resin greeblies I have had. Solid, but a bit chalky I'd say.

Can someone explain types of materials used for the face coats, including specific brands, expense and sources if possible? I am generally aware of gelcoat, resin, bondo/resin and talc powder/resin. I am looking at attemping a silicon skin with a fiberglass support case to work in. Thanks.

(polyester) gel coat is thickened resin* and is brushed into a mold and allowed to cure before the fiberglass. This gives the piece a good surface and prevents any fibers from showing through and being seen/felt at the surface. Gel coat is purchase as a separate item from the resin and is catalyzed with MEKP the same. Here is a good place to look for materials: http://www.shopmaninc.com/polyesters.html
Here is a good information source: http://www.fibreglast.com/contentpages-Learning-Center-286.html


In most case, you do not need gelcoat. If you are planning to paint the cast, no gel coat needed. It would be hidden behind several layers of primer and paint. You will not need gel coat for the case mold described above. Gel coat is need on things that you don't want to paint like a boat hull. It comes in many colors, and if you have a good mold, you can go without paint.

Many people will tell you to mix Bondo or plaster into resin to make gelcoat. It is cheap, and it will work, but not as good as just buying a small can of gel coat. The idea is to give you a sandable surface if you don't have a good mold.

* All 2 part polymers (Polyester, epoxy, urethane, silicone) have a resin side, and a catalyst side. So be careful how you through around the word "Resin." These days "Resin" generally means urethane casting resin.

Great info, thank you once again!

That's good to know I won't need gel-coat if I cast up something and paint it. I always thought it was something I needed to use. Getting a few cans of primer is definatly easier than trying to hunt down some gel coat.

One of the reasons that I always use black gel coat is that it is very easy to spot air bubbles in the lay-up against the dark background.