A little off topic, but the best bunch of guys I could think to ask.

Got some garden equipment back from the nephew the other day, and he has left them out in the elements all year. The ones with the fiberglass handles have started to 'come apart' at the surface. Picked it up with bare hands and got a hand full of microscopic fibers.

So what's the best way to be able to use them without gloves? My instinct is to just take some Scotch Brite to them and then give them a quick spray of clear coat.

Am I barking up the wrong tree?

 

Don't use scotchbrite. The resin has broken down exposing the glass and it needs to be covered. Get some fiberglass resin and hardener. Wearing gloves and a respirator sand the exposed area. Wipe clean with some alcohol. Mix the resin and hardener per the instructions and paint the exposed areas. I would recommend two coats. The second after the first has fully cured. When the second is still tacky wrap the exposed ares with a sports grip tape to provide extra protection. It can be painted but you need a fiberglass primer.

 

That's why I ask the experts. I'm assuming a fine grip paper. Any guestimate on how much resin and hardener to mix for the average long shovel handle? LOL

My memory from shop class back in high school was that the resin / hardener was fairly thick. Is that still something I can 'paint' on, or should I be using a different or special mixture?

 

There are different viscosities. I have some fairly thick resin that I use for dings in my Corvette.

BTW: I am no expert but I do have a little bit of experience plugging holes and grinding away damaged ares to hand lay new glass for a repair. Once you understand the process it is fairly easy. Carbon Fiber is very similar.

 

Been around it and seen it done many times, but only did it a few times MANY years ago. Wasn't aware of the different viscosities, will have to see what I can find.

Is something thin enough to 'paint' on something I can pick up at Walmart, or something I'm going to have to go to a paint and body supplier for?

 

X2 on Tsquare's suggestion. The sports grip tape is a nice added grip... didn't think of that. Yes, Walmart has it in their automotive section.