How to replace a monofin in a silicone mermaid tail like a pro. Methods could also be used to repair a silicone mermaid tail using Dragonskin silicone by Smooth-On. Tutorial by Mermaid Amatheia.
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Music Copyright to KZread
Anywhen You Say, Soft Feeling, Blue Dream, and Blind Memories all by artist, Cheel.
!!!!!!SAFETY PREAMBLE!!!!!!
Before we begin I need to share about my silicone repair method and its potential risks. I have learned this method through my 4 years of experience working with Dragonskin and troubleshooting with Smooth-On’s experienced technicians. If you are attempting to take on a large repair like this please do yourself a favour and do a small test on the tail to make sure the new silicone will completely bond to the old.
I don’t use Sil-Poxy for a large repair like this, for various reasons. I will be using Dragonskin to reglue the fluke down onto the new monofin.
But, there are multiple steps that need to be taken to ensure the new Dragonskin adheres to the old.
Step 1 - Identify that the tail is under 4 years old.
Step 2 - Thoroughly clean the area to be glued with Acetone.
Step 3 - Prep the old silicone by wiping it with Naphtha and then Inhibit X.
All of these chemicals are highly flammable and unsafe to touch or breathe in, so neoprene gloves, safety goggles, and a gas mask rated for organic vapours are essential PPE items when handling these materials. Read and obey all warning labels on the materials container before using.
"WHEEWWWWW I finished it!
Just uploaded this video which I have been filming and editing for weeks. Living in Canada and being separated from my local pod for more than a year due to Covid has made me feel very disconnected to the larger merfolk scene. I want to feel belonging and I want to contribute so since my particular talent is tail making and repair I'm hoping this vid helps mers out there take care of their tails better and not give up on it if their monofin breaks or something. Love you all! " - Mermaid Amatheia
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES LIST
Essential Safety Gear:
gas mask with filters rated for organic vapours
neoprene or nitrile gloves, NO LATEX
safety glasses
*work in a studio with good air ventilation or outside
Silicone:
Dragonskin 10 Fast or Medium in the trial sized set
Sil-Poxy by Smooth-On
paper cups
stir stix
digital scale
new monofin, preferably with a flat blade
Chemicals:
acetone
naphtha
Inhibit-X by Smooth-On
alcohol for cleanup
Misc:
t-pins
long wooden sticks
paper towel
microfibre cloths
utility knife
JB Weld glue
power mesh fabric, small scraps
1mm thick nylon polyester fabric, 1-2 metres
2 rods
Filming Assistance by Wes
A huge Thank You to my Patrons who continue to support my video effforts:
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