How do I make a tack cloth?

Question

I mean the slightly sticky cloths that are used to wipe up sanding dust from a wood work project

Answer 1

hiya rosemary...

the best formula i've used for making tack cloths is to soak cheese-cloth in a solution made up from the following;

1 part - alkyd varnish (not polyurethane...)
1 part - raw linseed oil (not boiled...)
1 part - gum or spirits turpentine (not paint thinner or mineral spirits...)

(all these components can be found at your local independent paint or hardware store).

this formula keeps tack cloths sticky almost forever - the raw linseed oil keeps the varnish from drying and the turpentine reduces the mixture to a workable consistency (plus it makes it kinda smell good)....

for best results, store tack cloths in a tupperware bowl or something similar (does not have to be completely air-tight)

keep this in mind when working with tack cloths - tack cloths do an excellent job removing sanding dust from a surface about to be varnished or painted - but they will leave a slight film or residue on the surface. if the finish you're planning on using is an oil based paint or varnish, no problem - but if you're using lacquer, shellac or water based (or water borne) finishes, be careful - the residue can result in poor adhesion of the finish coat or, in the case of lacquer, possibly cause the finish coat to blush (as opposed to drying crystal clear)

i hope this information is helpful to you...good luck on your projects.

ric

Answer 2

Buy some cheese cloth - as tight a weave as you can get for the material.

Cut the material into 2 foot squares. Fold evenly until you have a 6 inch square pad. Apply 2-4 (your choice because of the variance of weave in the cheesecloth) tablespoons of standard (not polyurethane) varnish to the folded pad. Work it in until the pad is uniformly moist. Store your tack rag in an airtight container. I use a quart paint can - ziploc bags will work as well!

Answer 3

Well, you can make it out of gauze, or cheese cloth, as mentioned above. Gauze can be found in any store that sells first aid supplies. You can also purchase the tack cloths for woodworking. Check out the link Im providing, they have an assortment of product.

Have Fun

Answer 4

Get some spreadable glue and spread it on a towel, like a tea towel...wipe up your stuff and then toss it in the washer!

Answer 5

Can You Buy Enyo Cloths There?

Answer 6

A lot of insightful answers here

Answer 7

Thank you! Very informative and this offers me better knowledge on the subject

Answer 8

it depends...