Cellulose Clear

**Vermin_King** · #1 10-08-2014, 09:57 AM

In a post on Mauther's blog, papermau.blogspot.com/2014/10/formula-1-slotcar-bodies-paper-models.html, I caught a phrase about a method for hardening your models.

So I had to check it out.

You probably want to use Chrome to translate, but the site is here: kami8823.webcrow.jp/

The product in question is this

They are using this product to harden slot-car bodies made from cardstock. It looks interesting, but I was wondering if anyone has ever tried this.

Is this Cellulose Acetate Butyrate?

**elliott** · #2 10-08-2014, 10:13 AM

Not familiar with the product but it sure sounds interesting. Would make correcting (my) errors a whole lot easier.

**hawkman67** · #3 10-08-2014, 10:35 AM

Well, that looks to be the same as flying model airplane dope.. It is the same material, or so it seems..
Jeff

**at6** · #4 10-08-2014, 10:47 AM

Interesting method for strengthening, but why not just spray varithane?

**Vermin_King** · #5 10-08-2014, 12:31 PM

I'm not sure what spray varithane is. I think something like this would be better for glossy models, but not sure

**at6** · #6 10-09-2014, 09:32 AM

I would get it from the hardware store. It came in a spray can and it was labeled Varathane plastic. I used it on fishing poles after re-tying eyelets on them to seal the thread. I misspelled it in my original reply.

**Gil** · #7 10-09-2014, 04:33 PM

It's called nitrate dope (nitrocellulose dissolved in acetone). Another name is "instrument lacquer".

Available from Sig Mfg.

European paper modelers (especially in Poland) use it regularly (that's where I first discovered its use in papermodeling).

It will stiffen cardstock without discoloration and prevents glue smears which can be wiped easily from a paper surface so protected with a damp paper towel.

-Gil

**Ponytail** · #8 10-11-2014, 03:34 AM

And how about yellowing?

**Gil** · #9 10-11-2014, 07:30 AM

@Ponytail,

It remains clear even after being exposed for long periods of direct sunlight.

-Gil

**bpgeygolpher** · #10 10-11-2014, 07:52 AM

@gil

Does the stiffening interfere with bending, folding, or any curving that might be necessary? Based on your comment that it is easy to remove glue spots I am assuming that the card is treated with this prior to the actual build. Is that correct?

Thanks

Paul