Roller & Mat Questions

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#1

Ok, I understand that bristle rollers should be really good for mat, but what about the aluminum rollers? Are they for use with mat or only cloth?

Also, I’m getting ready to order some heavier mat. Thus far I’ve only been using the Bondo brand stuff from Wal-Mart. Lays up great, but takes FOREVER to try and build any thickness. I’m guessing it’s about 3/4oz mat. I’m not sure if I should order some 1.5 or 2oz mat. How much easier is it to get the 1.5oz to conform to curves? Does the 2oz build up thickness that much faster?

Thanks again for all of your help and hope everyone had a great 4th!

#2

I have always used aluminum rollers on mat, I’ve never tried a bristle roller. .5 conforms real easy, you may have to stretch it a bit for complex compund vurves but you can do that dry during test fits. If it bunches up someplace just tear it and lay it down. Once wet it lays down real nice… well ar least for me.

#3

Will the aluminum ones pop the tiny bubbles you sometimes get? How quickly does the 1.5oz buildup thickness? That’s the main thing I’m after, building up thickness quickly. Thanks for the response!

#4

The bristle roller is typically used to remove air bubbles while the ribbed roller is used for compaction. 1.5oz CSM will build thickness very quickly.

#5

Excellent! Looks like I’ll be getting both rollers and going with 1.5oz mat. Thanks for the help. :cool: