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Good day everyone,
Recently back into building and havent done anything with photo etch until now. I have done a fair amount of research about PE bending tools and noticed there is a ton of info out there about what is recommended to get, the different types and styles and their qualityq, and a lot on how to use your typical straight edge portion of the tool.
I totally get how to bend straight portions of PE, and i understand there are tools for rolling as well, but what about the other portions of the bending tools - how do you use the different grooves, angles, tooltips and curves? I was unsuccessful scouring the forums and internet videos on these.
Thanks.
Instead of a bespoke PE rolling tool set I use a set of hardware store drill bits. Wrap thePE around the shank. The roll can be tightened by pressing against a mouse pad
As Ed said, if making a round piece, like an exhaust shroud, then different size drill bits and a smooth surface will work great.
To your question...as I understand what you're asking....the narrower points, and different sized straight edges are as near as I can figure, and use, is for tight access of small or complicated folds. Nothing intimidating. However sometimes the MkI eyeball, sharp blade, and steady hand work as well and cheaper than the tools. Good luck and hope this helps.
we're modelers it's what we do
EdGrune Instead of a bespoke PE rolling tool set I use a set of hardware store drill bits. Wrap thePE around the shank. The roll can be tightened by pressing against a mouse pad
One of those 'bar' type pink rubber erasers also makes a great 'anvil' for working your PE. Gives a nice amount of control, and easier to hold your drill bits being raised off the work surface.
Greg
George Lewis:
armornutthe narrower points, and different sized straight edges are as near as I can figure, and use, is for tight access of small or complicated folds.
Thats kind of where i was headed - i just dont want to ruin anything by experimenting, so was curious.
I second the use of the old red erasers or dense foam for an "anvil" when making curved pieces with PE. I have found the use of a dapping block such as this one from Harbor Freight good for putting in curves such as radar domes
https://www.harborfreight.com/25-piece-doming-block-and-punch-set-93539.html
Smooth needle nose pliers are also helpful when folding small PE parts. I seldom, if ever, use those tools specially made to fold PE.
I do my PE folding on a sheet of glass that i put a piece of masking tape on to give it the perfect amount of "give" when folding with a razor blade.
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