Video Tutorial : Chroming

[frenzyrumble]

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[thyvipera]

great tutorial. wish i can see that masking tape being pulled off. lovely sight

[frenzyrumble]

I know, I want to shoot the tape coming off too.

[Dubcustomz]

Nice. Seems ive been doing things the right way, but where do you buy that clear from? I cant find it on their website.

[- Z -]

Nice tutorial.... but how in the hell are you not spraying in a booth?

[frenzyrumble]

Nice tutorial.... but how in the hell are you not spraying in a booth?

no shit, what's even funnier is I say "make sure you use a mask" and then my mask is on the table next to prime GAHHH lol. I usually wear one though.

Spray booth is 1st thing on my x-mas list. I usually have loud vents pulling out fumes, it's a start. I don't spray much, but when I do, I am usually careful, and leave the shop for a while after I spray.

[frenzyrumble]

Nice. Seems ive been doing things the right way, but where do you buy that clear from? I cant find it on their website.

I got that on ebay.

[thyvipera]

no shit, what's even funnier is I say "make sure you use a mask" and then my mask is on the table next to prime GAHHH lol. I usually wear one though.

Spray booth is 1st thing on my x-mas list. I usually have loud vents pulling out fumes, it's a start. I don't spray much, but when I do, I am usually careful, and leave the shop for a while after I spray.

I havnt thought about buying a spray booth. using the airbrush, the fumes are a lot less than spray cans. I wear a mask regardless, using either.

Safer is better I suppose. What I'm worried about is epoxy glue. I dont think breathing mask really make a difference, so of I dont use one while mixing and applying epoxy.

great tutorial mike, def. make a video of you pulling off the masking tape, that would rock

[Dubcustomz]

Is there an issue with it or something cos i cant find anyone who ships it overseas.

[Solrac333]

The master at work.

[- Z -]

no shit, what's even funnier is I say "make sure you use a mask" and then my mask is on the table next to prime GAHHH lol. I usually wear one though.

Spray booth is 1st thing on my x-mas list. I usually have loud vents pulling out fumes, it's a start. I don't spray much, but when I do, I am usually careful, and leave the shop for a while after I spray.

You can build one quite easily with a over hood/vent and a blower. I built one for about $150 or so.

[formula93]

Watching this makes me want to chrome every Transformer I own.

[Scratimus]

What airbrush are you using?

[N5omniac]

You can build one quite easily with a over hood/vent and a blower. I built one for about $150 or so.

a while back..somewhere else in this world wide web, I came across an easy homemade booth.. I think it was from Airbrush Magazine's forum or sumtn.. mostly showing you how to make one for polyurethane paints.. so I guess if its good enough for that then... anyways, you can use the same ideas for the light box, but make all the walls solid (using cardboard/foamboard/wuteva board), I'd recommend taping them together (so you can fold it up later for storage) specially for those who dont have the extra room for kick @$$ workspaces (like Frenzy, Heretic, and StarWarsGeek). while having the backwall, or bottom (depending on how you want to vent it) with a cheap floor / box fan (blowing away of course) with a cheap $1-2 home AC filter taped to the inlet side... or if your lucky enough have that by a window to blow the exhaust outside.. the filters are great for overspray/dust and cheap cheap cheap to replace.


geez.. now thats out of the way, I wanted to ask.. do you think Alclad is better than Alsa's Killer Can - Chrome (not the $1000+ unit; the $40 can)

[enclinedesigns]

Well.....I have done tests, and ...well....if you are going to use the killer can, get the ALCLAD...same stuff..

But, ALSA MIRRACHROME is the most reflective.

[formula93]

You get paid every time you plug their stuff, don't you. :)

[frenzyrumble]

I think he does. I've read mixed results about both. I happen to just prefer Alclad's line because; it's worked well for me, and I've read great things about it (done lots of research) There are lots of model junkies on lots of board who debate and test them all for us. If/when I see results from mirrachrome that portray it's superior to Alclad, I'll take the $150/6 oz plunge.

Here's some good reads :

http://cs.scaleautomag.com/scacs/forums/t/42562.aspx?PageIndex=1
http://www.opentrackaction.com/acmeforum/showthread.php?t=530



for 1/15 the price, and better results, why go with killer chrome?

http://images54.fotki.com/v556/photos/1/10258/4212157/AlcladKillraw-vi.jpg

[Scratimus]

Well.....I have done tests, and ...well....if you are going to use the killer can, get the ALCLAD...same stuff..

But, ALSA MIRRACHROME is the most reflective.

:censored: Encline the stuff you buy is Expensive

[C2567]

Lol, You should make a tutorial on how to chrome Plastic spoons and sell them as Stainless steel spoons for that extra $ towards buying Alsa Mirrachrome :P

[enclinedesigns]

No guys, I am just saying, ALCLAD II is the same stuff that is in the KILLER CAN and is is called ghost chrome....mirrachrome is finer ground aluminum, different, and more expensive.

MIRRACHROME-before light buffing.
http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/9190/cimg2583.jpg

[frenzyrumble]

I'm reading on their website that killer chrome is mirrachrome, but the aerosol version. Ghost chrome appears to be something else entirely.

Very confusing product line they have.

[- Z -]

For what it is worth, I was able to get a sample bottle of Alsa mirror chrome sent to me a few months back (I asked, they said sure!). I did the same tests as the dude with the spoons, and Alsa's product did produce a better mirrored effect, but by a VERY small margin. To me, the difference was not worth the almost 10x markup in price. Allclad II gave great results and was a bit more durable after the curing period. Alsa seems to rub off with only a slight touch. Spaz Stix was crap.

I think these results were just fine from my Allclad II:

http://zildjiancustoms.angelfire.com/images/tutorials/chrome/chrometutorial9c.jpg

[frenzyrumble]

Yeah, I've seen perfect results with both, and the difference (imo) is so marginal and does not justify the price of Alsa's stuff.

It's not much more expensive, from what I understand, Alsa is $25 per 1 oz bottle, while Alclad is $8

[enclinedesigns]

For anyone reading this thread...use alclad II chrome....It is all in the black base:)

[- Z -]

Yeah, I've seen perfect results with both, and the difference (imo) is so marginal and does not justify the price of Alsa's stuff.

It's not much more expensive, from what I understand, Alsa is $25 per 1 oz bottle, while Alclad is $8

That is still 3 times the price, which apparantly they lowered. I know when I was considering buying the 4 oz bottle of mirrachrome they were in the $150.00 range, and I can get 4 oz bottle of Allclad II for $20ish. Sooooo not worth the extra cost!

And encline is 100% correct.... the base is the key.

[frenzyrumble]

for sure. like I said in the video. I like HOK's gloss black, provide the same gloss result. Only drawback to alclad's base black is that it literally takes a solid 10 hours to dry, which sucks in a poor environment (dust, etc)

[enclinedesigns]

for sure. like I said in the video. I like HOK's gloss black, provide the same gloss result. Only drawback to alclad's base black is that it literally takes a solid 10 hours to dry, which sucks in a poor environment (dust, etc)

This!! I have used that alcad base...but man.....on any surface that faces up gets a little dirty.....SUCKS!!! I have forced it dry with hairdryers...at least where it is tack free.


Also, about the killer can being mirrachrome... how could they sell that for $40.00, and yet sell 4oz for $80.... Sometimes ALSA just is messed up...hahah.. but I still like the mirror:)

[frenzyrumble]

I think the mirrorchrome/killer chrome can is a regular 12oz can (though other "chromes" usually come in the smaller cans) and it's priced at $39.99 (Jesus...that's expensive spray paint)

[Dubcustomz]

For what it is worth, I was able to get a sample bottle of Alsa mirror chrome sent to me a few months back (I asked, they said sure!). I did the same tests as the dude with the spoons, and Alsa's product did produce a better mirrored effect, but by a VERY small margin. To me, the difference was not worth the almost 10x markup in price. Allclad II gave great results and was a bit more durable after the curing period. Alsa seems to rub off with only a slight touch. Spaz Stix was crap.

I think these results were just fine from my Allclad II:

http://zildjiancustoms.angelfire.com/images/tutorials/chrome/chrometutorial9c.jpg

The main issue i have with alclad is how fragile it is. It just rubs off so easily...a light breeze will make it fall off and run for the hills unless you clear coat it, which ends up dulling it more.
I havnt found an effective way to clear coat alclad yet without it dulling slightly. Future has given me the best results so far, but it still dulls the chrome a little bit. Tamiya acrylic clear just beads up into small drops of liquid if you spray it on too lightly, and put it on too wet i need to wear a snorkel!
I cant find anyplace that sells alclads own clear base over here, and all the US sites that ship internationally wont send it for some reason.
Zildjian/encline: How do you stop your alclad and mirrachrome from rubbing off?

[Dubcustomz]

for sure. like I said in the video. I like HOK's gloss black, provide the same gloss result. Only drawback to alclad's base black is that it literally takes a solid 10 hours to dry, which sucks in a poor environment (dust, etc)

And it takes about 10 coats before you get a solid black base, cos the stuff is so thin.

[- Z -]

Dubs: Are you using Allclad II for plastics or lexan? Also, what are you spraying over?

Allclad was FAR more durable than Alsa in my experiences. When you let it cure for the recommended time. Just because something is dry does NOT mean it cured. I used the ployurethane I mentioned in previous posts to clear coat it. Does not dull it one bit.

[- Z -]

And it takes about 10 coats before you get a solid black base, cos the stuff is so thin.


Yep, Rustoleum gloss black for plastics gives just as good, if not better results IMHO.

[Dubcustomz]

Dubs: Are you using Allclad II for plastics or lexan? Also, what are you spraying over?

Allclad was FAR more durable than Alsa in my experiences. When you let it cure for the recommended time. Just because something is dry does NOT mean it cured. I used the ployurethane I mentioned in previous posts to clear coat it. Does not dull it one bit.

For plastics. Last time i did it i sprayed it over the rustoleum paint you recommended, but i usually spray it over a very glossy cellulose gloss black with 2k lacquer over it, what they use on cars to make them so shiny basically.
I forget, how long is alclad ment to be left to fully cure for? I just dont trust it because i have stuff i chromed over a year ago in my spare parts bin and the chrome still rubs off.

I havnt been able to find any water based polyurathane where i am, either online or in RL thats why i havnt used it.

[N5omniac]

well crap....you guys just saved me over $40 and a lot of frustration!!! Alclad it is!!! and can u believe their even selling gloss black for $40??? and Clear for $40??? I love what Alsa has to offer, been watching them for years, but Imma broke basta'd and every penny counts!!!! I realised that really Im paying for the name rather than the product, but if Frenzy says Alclad.. then Alclad it is.. PS love the spoon test.. theres also a product out there that uses a sticky powder that many love.. of course only sold in Japan and is backordered everywhere but from what I've seen Alclad II works! I will be on ebay tomorrow!

[OMEGAPRIME1983]

nice tutorial. To bad I'm a bit to lazy to wet sand and buff the black base, lol.

[Dubcustomz]

When you wet sand the base, you are left with a dulled finish right? What do you use to buff the shine back? Do you use some kind of polish?

[speedleescustoms]

MAN ! this is not a video tutorial about chROMING ! it's MAGIC !!!! *thumbs thumbs up !*

[frenzyrumble]

When you wet sand the base, you are left with a dulled finish right? What do you use to buff the shine back? Do you use some kind of polish?

I don't buff the black. I sand/buff the plastic the black will go on.

[Dubcustomz]

I don't buff the black. I sand/buff the plastic the black will go on.

ooooh, ok, my bad, duh

<<dumbass

[C2567]

could someone direct me to a link to buy some Alclad, Not ebay :)

[Matticus Prime]

Just throwing in my .02 killer chrome blows, if you must just go ahead and buy the mirrachrome. However the speed clear is friggin awesome. Dry to the touch in 20!

[Boggs6ft7]

I'm curious about the black base thing.

I've used the alclad chrome and really like, followed the directions, used gloss black on the base and all no problems.

But since the paint is opaque, shouldn't the surface just be really smooth? Is that the real purpose of the black paint? If so, could some gloss coat paint just be used?

I guess I should just shut up and try it, I'm just curious as to what your thoughts were.

[- Z -]

I'm curious about the black base thing.

I've used the alclad chrome and really like, followed the directions, used gloss black on the base and all no problems.

But since the paint is opaque, shouldn't the surface just be really smooth? Is that the real purpose of the black paint? If so, could some gloss coat paint just be used?

I guess I should just shut up and try it, I'm just curious as to what your thoughts were.

Take a peek at this.... something I threw together a few months before FR made his video. Black is important because it provides a negative base and is more naturally reflective than any other color.

http://www.procustomizers.com/showthread.php?t=1123

Also in slideshow format:

http://www.customsbyzildjian.com/tutorialchrome.html

[Boggs6ft7]

Take a peek at this.... something I threw together a few months before FR made his video. Black is important because it provides a negative base and is more naturally reflective than any other color.

Do you mean more absorbant? Because that would make sense to prevent other color being reflected back there the chrome did not cover properly.

The slideshow was good, I haven't tried the dusting method.

[- Z -]

Do you mean more absorbant? Because that would make sense to prevent other color being reflected back there the chrome did not cover properly.

The slideshow was good, I haven't tried the dusting method.

You got it 100%! In order for something to be refelctive, it needs to be absorbant of colors.

[Boggs6ft7]

You got it 100%! In order for something to be refelctive, it needs to be absorbant of colors.

No, I meant that if it is absorbant, then no colors off colors would be reflected back such as the undercoat, which would make sense if an area was too thin, then a black background would hide those areas better. Black by definition is the absense of all colors, so everything is absorbed and nothing is reflected back.

[- Z -]

No, I meant that if it is absorbant, then no colors off colors would be reflected back such as the undercoat, which would make sense if an area was too thin, then a black background would hide those areas better. Black by definition is the absense of all colors, so everything is absorbed and nothing is reflected back.

I am not sure what you are saying when you say:


then no colors off colors would be reflected back such as the undercoat

You and I are saying the same thing. For example, if you look at something black and very high gloss, you can see youself almost like a mirror. However, if you look as something white and high gloss, you really can't see yourself.

Something can't be reflective if it can't absorb colors, and therefore "images".

[Matticus Prime]

Picture the black being the back of a mirror, the reflective part would be layed over that. Alclad also makes sapphire youcan achive that anodized look.

[Boggs6ft7]

I am not sure what you are saying when you say:



You and I are saying the same thing. For example, if you look at something black and very high gloss, you can see youself almost like a mirror. However, if you look as something white and high gloss, you really can't see yourself.

Something can't be reflective if it can't absorb colors, and therefore "images".

Colors we see are reflected colors that are not absorbed, an apple is red because it absorbs all colors but red. The way I'm seeing it is that if black was the basecoat, then thin areas would be easy to hide because no basecoate colors are being reflected, which makes sense on why to use black.

The reflective property is because of the gloss, not the black. The reason that a reflection is hard to see with a white glossy surface is because now not only is light being reflected from the gloss, but also all colors are being reflected from white (white being the combination of all visible light), making any reflections harder to see, but they are still there. With black, no colors (or very few) are being reflected while the glossy surface still reflects some of the light.

So as I'm understanding, the black keeps base color from coming through and the gloss provides a smooth surface for the alclad to stick to.

[- Z -]

Colors we see are reflected colors that are not absorbed, an apple is red because it absorbs all colors but red. The way I'm seeing it is that if black was the basecoat, then thin areas would be easy to hide because no basecoate colors are being reflected, which makes sense on why to use black.

Not when addressing a mirror..... a mirrored object can not absorb colors. It gets confusing, but mirros are a whol diifferent ball of wax.


The reflective property is because of the gloss, not the black. The reason that a reflection is hard to see with a white glossy surface is because now not only is light being reflected from the gloss, but also all colors are being reflected from white (white being the combination of all visible light), making any reflections harder to see, but they are still there. With black, no colors (or very few) are being reflected while the glossy surface still reflects some of the light.

Yes and no.... like the post above you, think of an actual mirror. Look at the back of one it is completely black.


So as I'm understanding, the black keeps base color from coming through and the gloss provides a smooth surface for the alclad to stick to.

Yep! 100% correct!!

[Boggs6ft7]

Yes and no.... like the post above you, think of an actual mirror. Look at the back of one it is completely black.

The coating is just a protective layer and has nothing to do with the reflective properties. Most mirrors, such as a bath room mirror, are back coated and then a protective layer is put over to help protect the silvering. The glass protects the other side. The glass also provides a smooth surface. Without the back coating, you would just have a surface coated mirror, which are used a lot with lasers because you don't get refraction from the glass of the mirror. They are also harder to make and keep from scratching, which is why you don't normally find them in a store.

[Reluttr]

I do not current have an airbrush "or the funds to afford a decent one XD", is there an aerosol equivalent to this? It doesn't have to be as good, I just want a shiny semi mirror-like surface for a sword I'm making.

[Boggs6ft7]

You might want to try some bare metal foil, it might give you the look you are after and does not required spraying, just a steady hand.

[- Z -]

I do not current have an airbrush "or the funds to afford a decent one XD", is there an aerosol equivalent to this? It doesn't have to be as good, I just want a shiny semi mirror-like surface for a sword I'm making.

Look up Spaz Sitx. They make a chroming paint that comes in a spray can.

[frenzyrumble]

Look up Spaz Sitx. They make a chroming paint that comes in a spray can.

Alclad does also. it's decent stuff. I used it back before I was into customs FT.

Here's the result w/ the Alclad 2 aerosol can:


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2342/2225357898_f1b08c5c44.jpg

[- Z -]

Alclad does also. it's decent stuff. I used it back before I was into customs FT.

Here's the result w/ the Alclad 2 aerosol can:


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2342/2225357898_f1b08c5c44.jpg


But is it inexpensive.... I think that is what the OP wanted. Spaz Sitx is like $10 or something right?

[frenzyrumble]

yeah, I used to get the alclad aerosols for about $10 a can.

[C2567]

really useful ! thanks a bunch..

[Scuba Steves Customs]

yeah, I used to get the alclad aerosols for about $10 a can.

Can you post a link to a website that sells them

[frenzyrumble]

http://www.ehobbies.com/alc5114.html

[Scuba Steves Customs]

Thank you

[formula93]

One thing I feel I should add to this - Even using the Alclad Gloss Kote, if you spray too much, the chrome will still turn to metallic silver. Just a couple of light coats is all that's necessary. Just had this happen to my Scourge repaint. I can live with it, but it's pretty disappointing. The chrome was PERFECT before.

[stevescustoms]

I love this chrome. Your right forumula, too much clear will kill the shine.

[Blade]

Can I paint another color over the chrome paint?
or do I need to sand the bits I want to paint on?

[frenzyrumble]

Can I paint another color over the chrome paint?
or do I need to sand the bits I want to paint on?

Some transparent paints work well over the chrome. In fact, Alclad makes a few (which I have yet to try, but have in hand)

http://www.alclad2.com/finishes/transparent.html

this sample appears to show it on clear plastic, but I bet it would look killer on chrome

http://www.alclad2.com/images/transparent/1.jpg

I recommend sanding the areas you'll be chroming, the smoother the better. Ever see a chrome bumper with texture?

[Blade]

Thanks for the reply. Starting my first project
tonight, got to have my homework ready :)