Thread: 1pc Scales w/Corian... initial findings

Evening all!

While on travel at my folks place, I took advantage of my step-father's shop. We created a jig to safely make 1pc scales (more to follow) and work with some of the Corian I picked up.

The initial; Corian is actually easier to work with than I expected and buffs up very well.

I wanted to go with a 1pc design for a number of reasons and created a basic template really like.

Here are a few very initial pics. This is with a Dubl Duck #1 balde I have been dying to use but needed scales. The blade still needs some work, but atleast I have come up with a shape I like. This is my 1st attempt at scale work; I had the shape idea in my head but translating it was more fun....

The Corian sample is Cirrius White. The pics really do not show the "grain" that resembles a bone marbled pattern. I must confess, I am pleased with myself for a 1st attempt



Comments?!


v/r

Allen

Allen - they look great. I like the shape and the "marble" look. Very well done!

Super Cool! I like the look and the shape.
Great Work
Charlie

Very nice scales. How is the weight and balance?

Indeed, very nice scales !!

I wonder what a square meter of Corian approximately cost. Any idea Allen?

Very Very Nice

A 4x6" sample of the Corian was $4.50. That is more than wood, but this material is easier to work since it requires nothing to stabilize or finish.

I have been very pleased with the initial piece. The width of the sample is listed as 1/2 inch, but it is actually a tad slimmer (.046" to be exact). The weight is good, but the next set I do (tomorrow) I will plane down so the finished piece will be a tad thinner but a bit lighter. The ones I have pictured are actually well balanced, but it is a 6/8 blade that is heavy. Most will likely prefer a tad lighter scale, thus why I am planning to shave the other piece I will be using. Hindsight, I may have gone tinner to start with but these actaully are very well balanced. It is now a matter of preference. Ideally for weight/balance the thickness will wind up at <.40". What throws it off a little (compared to factory scales) is the 1pc design that makes the scale toe-weighted.

The next piece will be in the "Lava Rock" color and is intended for my new Henckles I just recieved.

v/r

Allen

I really like the look. Great job.

Jordan

I know it's Corian with it's own characteristics and therefor not really comparable with another materials, but if you had to describe it which one does it resemble most?

Is it widely available ? You made me very curious

Originally Posted by Joelski78

....if you had to describe it which one does it resemble most?

Is it widely available ? You made me very curious

It is not widely available, but you can order it online. The downside (I found) is the color is hard to determine without seeing it. It's kind of a shot in the dark with the color unless you see it at a local home improvement store.

It is a VERY dense plastic. I had no problem cutting it with a scroll saw, but you need to take your time. It is MUCH denser than any hardwood but it yields good results (so far). I free-handed all of the shaping on sanders after the initial basic shape was established. Take your time since if you rush it will scorch and ti has a tendancy to develop sharp angles. They can be knocked down b sanding, but you need to plan for the extra time to finish it.

The next set will be darker for the Henckels. I'll post next week based on the outcome!

v/r


Allen