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Post by drocknut on Oct 22, 2009 13:07:50 GMT -5
I saw a display at the mineral museum in Butte, Montana and have been trying to figure out how to make the butterflies. The pics I have are a bit blurry but hopefully you get the idea. I tried using rocks as bodies and glue to attach the rock slice wings but the wings seemed to be too heavy or the glue wasn't strong enough or the rocks were too slick. I didn't have epoxy so used Ailene's glue for glass. Any ideas on how to make these? I'm wondering if the bodies need to be some other material like clay. I'm not sure I have any "wing" material right now but it would be nice to know how to make these if I can find some.   sorry the pics are so blurry but best I could do with my camera and they glass of the display. Also was wondering if a dremel can be used to carve rocks or shape them and or how to do it. Couldn't find anything about this in a search so figured I ask here. Thanks |
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Post by Toad on Oct 22, 2009 13:38:12 GMT -5
Yes a dremel can be used with rock - probably better to use diamond bits though. I'm sure the butterflies can be made out of whatever yuo like - depending on what you want to spend in cash and time.
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Post by rockmanken on Oct 22, 2009 22:53:01 GMT -5
HAVE to use 2 part epoxy to hold them together.
Ken
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Post by Toad on Oct 23, 2009 9:01:21 GMT -5
Pinning might be required on the wings as well to give added strength. Unless you cut slots in the body to accept the wings. But either way, two-part epoxy is the way to go - as Ken said.
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Post by drocknut on Oct 24, 2009 0:39:40 GMT -5
I've not worked much with epoxy so would you explain what you mean by two-part epoxy?
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Post by Toad on Oct 24, 2009 10:16:28 GMT -5
It's a glue that comes in two bottles. Squeeze an equal amount of both into a platic cap (like a milk jug you're done with) and stir the two components together. Once combined, you usually have a few minutes to apply before it starts setting. Very strong stuff. Can pick it up at hobby stores. Jeweler supplies would carry as well. Pretty inexpensive.
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Post by drocknut on Oct 24, 2009 17:13:20 GMT -5
Thank you Toad for the information. I have seen that before in stores. Is there a particular brand that is best or just any of the ones out there? I know there are some very expensive ones on the market but I am trying to do this without spending a fortune.
Any ideas on how to get the wings to stand up while letting the epoxy dry? Also what could I put on the work area that wouldn't get everything stuck together? I'd have to set the butterfly down to dry for a while to let the epoxy cure wouldn't I?
I sure appreciate all the help here.
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NDK
Cave Dweller 
Member since January 2009
Posts: 9,440
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Post by NDK on Oct 24, 2009 18:51:47 GMT -5
The nice thing with the 2 part epoxy is you just squeeze out the amount you need. I like using a toothpick for stirring and to apply it. Then it's just applied where you need it and usually won't run off.
I got my epoxy at Menards (home improvement store), It's super glue brand and was under 2 dollars for the two .5 oz tubes.
As far as putting the butterflies together, you'll probably need to support the wings somehow until the epoxy sets.
Good luck, and be sure to share lots of pics!
Nate
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mossyrockhound
fully equipped rock polisher
Member since January 2011
Posts: 1,315
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Post by mossyrockhound on Oct 25, 2009 13:12:59 GMT -5
Those agate butterflies are nice. Here's another way you can make them if you desire (with 4 wings instead of 2): Carey Plume butterfly:  Utah agate butterfly mounted on the rock it was cut from:  I use a small strip of aluminum sheet, bent to go under the body and about an inch up the wings, and then glue together with 2-part epoxy. The aluminum support, along with the epoxy has proven to work well. I haven't had one come loose yet. I roughen up the surfaces that I use the glue on so they don't come loose. Good luck in your endeavor! Garry |
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Post by Toad on Oct 25, 2009 15:13:49 GMT -5
Nice flys, mossy.
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Post by drocknut on Oct 26, 2009 20:48:57 GMT -5
Thanks Nate and Garry. Nice butterflies Garry and great idea on how to give the wings support. We don't have Menards here but I'm sure I have seen two part epoxy at the local ACE store or at Home Depot. The toothpick tip is great Nate. I am just hoping to not glue my fingers together...lol.
I don't know when I'll have a chance to work on this project but I'll be sure and take pics when I get the butterflies together. I can only attempt to make ones as nice as yours Garry.
Thanks again for the tips and the help.
Diane
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