Ed Kershaw Posted November 22, 2009 Share Posted November 22, 2009 I've read build reviews where the builder says he used ammonia to soften balsa to bend it into tight radii. Does anyone know how this is done and where to get the ammonia from? Many thanks. Ed Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ken anderson. Posted November 22, 2009 Share Posted November 22, 2009 hello ed-last time i did it-all's i did was soak the balsa in the bath for 20 min's(weighted).....then bent it around a jig..........1st time i was amazed...soaked it with pva glue-left over night and bingo.........forget the ammonia.....(dodgy stuff)... ken anderson.........Edited By ken anderson. on 22/11/2009 15:24:41 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flytilbroke Posted November 22, 2009 Share Posted November 22, 2009 Some Hardware stores, Builders Supply stores, Paint and Wallpaper shops. I am not sure of the concentration, though 1/4 Litre mixed with 5Litre should be ok using the domestic strength Ammonia. Perhaps someone else can advise? Be very carefull not to splash yourself, paticularly your eyes. As Ken said, hot water works quite well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimbo565 Posted November 22, 2009 Share Posted November 22, 2009 Ed Steam from the kettle does the trick,hold the wood in steam and it will curve naturally. Jim Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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