How to Form Fiberglass Sheets

Cut fiberglass sheets into custom shapes for a model car.

Use thin sheets of fiberglass when building and modifying model cars, boats and airplanes to create infinite custom designs through a process known as kitbashing. You'll buy premade sheets, then cut them into specific shapes and added to preexisting models in order to form new creations. Forming these fiberglass sheets requires very little practice or materials.

Things You'll Need

• Wax paper
• Fiberglass resin and catalyst
• Fiberglass mat
• Mixing cup
• Mixing stick
• Paint brush
• Rubber gloves

Instructions

1. Lay a sheet of wax paper on a flat surface.

2. Tear off a square of fiberglass mat the size of the sheet that you want to create.

3. Mix a small batch of fiberglass resin and catalyst in a mixing cup according to its instructions.

4. Paint a layer of catalyzed resin onto the wax paper.

5. Press the piece of fiberglass mat into the resin.

6. Paint more resin onto the fiberglass mat, saturating it fully. If any air bubbles get trapped, tap them with the brush to force them out.

7. Add additional layers of fiberglass mat and resin if you need a thicker sheet.

8. Allow the fiberglass to cure until it has fully hardened and is no longer sticky to the touch. The time required will depend on how many layers you use.

9. Peel the wax paper off of the fiberglass sheet.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to make several sheets to use later, trim off the jagged edges with a pair of scissors before storing them.

• Always work in a well-ventilated area when using fiberglass.

• Wear protective gloves when working with fiberglass.

References

• "The Fiberglass Repair and Construction Handbook"; Jack Wiley; 1988