Expert: Nanetta Bananto - 3/29/2004

Question
I've been making mouthpieces for didgeridoos out of epoxy putty, but it's brittle and can break if dropped on concrete. Any suggestions for something which can easily be molded and filed and sanded but is somewhat more flexible after it's hardened? Thanks!

Answer
Dear Carl - About the only material I can think of which fits your criteria is Friendly Plastic.  I have worked with both the stick and the pellets.  It takes a little practice to get the hang of it, but it is a fun and durable product.  It is easily meltable in an electric skillet of hot water or even a non-plastic bowl with microwaved water. The advantage of the skillet is that you can maintain the temperature. The plastic melts and then hardens as it cools and can be melted again if you are not happy with the results.  I have made jewelry, dolls and masks with Friendly Plastic.  Just be sure to use a release (called mold release - silicone - at a ceramic supply) if molding in a mold. Fully join any joints by reheating the edges or they may split.  You must work quickly.  The surface can be smoothed with a quick dip in the water.  Embossing guns are being used with many plastics these days- it would be worth a try.  Of course, with any heatable material, there is always a risk of burns so be cautious.  If the plastic were to get too fluid it could stick to your skin - yeooww.  The pellets come in white, the sticks in a multitude of colors, including patterned and metallic.  I have provided these links below.  Let me know how it works!  (My son is crazy about digeridoos).  Do you have a website?  Nanetta



http://www.jewelrysupply.com/EJS/fppellets.htm


http://www.jewelrysupply.com/EJS/friendlyplasticsindex.htm