Blending Overlays

[quail]

Having a little difficulty finding an efficient and effective way to sand handle and tip overlays without getting into the glass, especially on the limb outer edges. Any tips or helpful hints appreciated.

[delongbows]

I used to have trouble on my tip overlays, but I started putting an extra layer of glass on the tips underneath the overlays. Haven't had any ugly ones since. That little extra glass blends soooo much better.

[Sam Harper]

I use a rattail file held in both hands for control and go slowly.  Then I sand.  Here's a video I did on it.  The bow in the video is bamboo, but I use the exact same method when doing a glass bow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jY911kAHU1Q&list=PL66EAAA8FA3ED0C0E

[Pat B]

I pre-shape the overlays at least where they transition to the tip or handle area. Once glued down I shape the tip and handle area to its ultimate shape. I also wait until the bow is tillered(wood bows)before doing any of this. I assume you can do the same with a glass bow

[PEARL DRUMS]

Try wrapping a piece of tape right at the tail end of the overlay. If you happen to get a bit too far down your sand paper will hit tape first.

[jsweka]

Good advice there from Pearl Drums and that's what I do.

The bottom line is that it just takes practice and each one will get better and better.

[bamboo]

the parts must fit tightly--no amount of sanding can fix a less than perfect fit--the tape is a good tip!also pre shaping the transition makes it easier

[PEARL DRUMS]

I should mention I get my leading edge razor sharp before glue up. All Im really doing is cleaning up a bit up glue. The bow and overlay already fit like a glove prior to glue up.

[Roy from Pa]

And I taught Pearly boy everything he knows..  

[PEARL DRUMS]

99.5%! tops! you old fart! I learnt the rest on me own!

[quail]

Thanks for the tips. I wish I had reached out sooner...aka..before I had glued the overlays down!    How do you guys "sharpen" or feather the ends of your overlay material. I am contemplating building a jig/sled specifically for that. Any experience??

[Pat B]

I pre-shape the overlays by hand on my belt sander.

[scrub-buster]

I do like Pat does and hit them on the belt sander.  Then I hand sand them with 220 grit sandpaper to get a razor edge.

[Trux Turning]

Here's a great build along that covers tips and overlays...

http://tradgang.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=125;t=002382;p=5

[bamboo]

I like to use sanding tape--10" strip drawn under my thumb-puts the pressure right where you need it

this jig makes skive joints and sharpens tip overlays-I grind them sharp then cut off from the stock