Carbon fiber hand lamination help needed

General Composites Discussions Composites Talk
#1

Hey guys, I’m wondering how can you possibly wrap the round object without any obvious seams or the overlapping the cloth. Something like this.
http://mau.my/mercedes-benz-carbon-fiber-gear-shift-knob-5221378/

http://mbworld.org/forums/attachments/c63-amg-w204/206476d1301585727-classic-emblem-shift-knob-control-knob-s-19-1-carbon-fiber-shift-knob-amg-4.jpg

http://mbworld.org/forums/attachments/c63-amg-w204/206475d1301585727-classic-emblem-shift-knob-control-knob-s-19-1-carbon-fiber-shift-knob-amg-2.jpg

Thanks guys!

#2

I would think those are made with a sleeve. I have never used it but I know it is available in a bunch of different sizes.

Again I have never ordered from these guys but they show a bunch of options that might work.

http://www.solarcomposites.com/

#3

It’s difficult to do, but it’s possible. Basically you have to line the weave up on the fabric so that it looks like there is no obvious seam. Either have the blended seam at the front of the knob, where no one will see it since it faces the dash, or you can cut your fabric at an angle so your seem isn’t straight and it blends in with the anlge of the twill weave. Make sense?

www.fiberglasshawaii.com

#4

There is also a technique you can use where you have tube material and stitch one end closed and turn it inside out and slide it over the mould. it works well for this sort of product

#5

I’ve never seen that before. Wouldn’t the thread you use to stitch be visible anyway?

Thanks for your advices. I’m gonna give your 2nd suggestion a try!