What is the finish on the tool storage for a 1950 MKV jaguar? I am trying to restore it but I don’t know what it is.
Hullo Wayne,
I have a Mk IV and the finish is similar. The surface is ‘flock’ - a fibre sourced product from the fabric industry. The simplest source I have found is the model railway specialists as it is used for modeller’s landscaping and it’s relatively cheap. There are several shades of green (and other colours) available and a good match can be found. It can be purchased in containers with salt shaker type tops but these are no good for this large area. Before and after pictures attached.
As always, preparation is key to a good result. Assuming all repairs, regluing of ply laminations, etc. are done, the old flock surface need only be lightly sanded to flatten the raised fibres. It is not necessary to strip the original surface nor to sand it excessively. I then used a chalkboard paint of similar colour and lightly sprayed over all faces visible from the top - ie the top, tool saddles and all edges. This provided a uniform base colour.
Applying the flock was a bit tricky because you need to create an even thickness and density. The method I settled on after several trials and errors was to apply a coat of diluted PVA glue and generously sprinkle the flock everywhere immediately.
The tricks are:
- undiluted glue is unnecessarily thick, takes too long to apply and dries too quickly to achieve a full coverage of flock. Try a 50/50 ratio or a bit weaker;
- a more even coverage of flock is achieved by a using a sieve with larger openings than the standard kitchen variety;
- use two trigger bottles. One for water to pre wet the surface. The other for the diluted glue but with the nozzle hole opened up to enable fast and generous spraying;
- use a dry plastic sheet underneath when applying the flock as there is a lot of loss through the openings and this can be saved. Apply the wetting and glue elsewhere so that the excess flock will be dry.
- speed is essential as the glue begins to air dry immediately. If the work dries differentially, the flocking may look spotty. Touch up can be done with local respraying. If you don’t like your first attempt, IMMEDIATELY run the tray under water and scrub off with a scrubbing brush and start again;
- tools that have uncoated surfaces eventually transfer rust stains to the very nice new finish. I have considered wrapping the offending ones in cling wrap and only remove it for shows.
Thank you very much, I thought it may be something like that. I will send a photo when it is done.
Wayne
Hi Wayne,
I see that this is the first time you’ve posted. Welcome to to the forum, and I’m sure you’ll find everyone here really helpful with any questions you have. Maybe post some pics of your DHC as everyone loves seeing a project progress.
Cheers, Jon.
Thank you for the welcome.
Wayne