I've been using phenolic for tip overlays but hate how sometimes you can see the cloth in the black after finishing. So I decided to try using some black and white glass  with no scrim that I had left over. It was 1 3/4 wide glass so just cut across the width figuring to use it that way. Problem is it snaps like a toothpick if you bend it at all. I went ahead and cut  up all my scraps like that like a dummy so I'm curious does it always snap if cut into small sideways pieces and do you have to cut it planning on using it length wise? Would glass with scrim do this also?

Way better cut lengthwise to keep fibers running longways in pcs.

On black phenolic, if you don't like the grain to show, try a black sharpie on the phen before spraying finish. It blacks out the linen and looks very black and shiny!

You have to use it lengthways. Even the schrim type will break down the center. It makes much nicer overlays in my opinion but it is harder to blend in to the limb glass. Pre taper it before you glue it on and that makes it much easier to blend it in nicely. Bob

Thanks knew I'd get a answer here! So I'll try it again length wise when I have some more glass. I like using three layers for overlays for looks and the phenolic ends up being pretty thick.  Great tip on sharpie till then.

Great tip on the phenolic Kenny. I used phenolic for the first time recently and I was a little unhappy with the linen showing through. I'll try this sharpie trick.

I think it was Bjansen who suggested putting a coat or two of truoil on phenolic to fill before the finish is applied, works good.  Got to remember and try the sharpie trick as well.

If I use multicolored overlays, i'll actually tape off the overlays and limb and use some flat black spray paint to keep the fibers from showing, I also have used the black sharpie idea like Kenny stated.  I usually do glass, then phenolic, then glass again so the glass blends into the limb easier. I also have used smooth on to coat the overlays to "seal them" before I put finish on.  That helps keep the fibers from showing as well.

Dave