Pouring questions

[Jigsisme]

All questions are when pouring with Pyrex/Microwave...

1) I start by heating up 2-4 ounces, when pouring I only get 3-4 individual pours then the plastic becomes too thick...is this normal?

2) When mixing color and plastic, I've read 2 drops per ounce of plastic...but when I mix it this way it is NEVER enough, and I'm just trying to get a nice rich black...am I doing something wrong? Where is the most recommended place to get colors?

3) I'm having some of the same problems as others (Calhouns) bubbles...should I stick with this brand or switch...do they all have bubbles?

Thanks to all for listening, I'm just trying to get all this figured out.

[GB GONE]

Hey Jigs...

If you are pouring big baits, then 3-4 may be normal but it sounds like you are not getting your plastisol hot enough. Try heating 2 minutes, then check your plastisol. If there is still a cloudiness to it, try another 15-30 seconds. Then add your color (some add color prior to heating as M-F recommends on their coloring products or at the 2 minute mark), scent and flake... Stir and nuke for another 15-20 seconds...

I think the 2 drops per oz is just a guideline to start when working on a color. That gives you an idea of what it would look like and you can darken as you go. You can always go darker but can't go back... For black, I need about 6 drops per oz. A SMART friend of mine, Joel, from bigpig lures, taught me to add my coloring when the plastic is still gelled. You get WAY better coloring, in my opinion, that way.

Some bubbles are inherent to the microwave process. They should be few in number and cook out of your plastic before pouring. Calhoun's has had a problem with bubbles (see other posts on this forum) that is well documented. M-F, Loes (new plastisol coming soon to market for LESS $$$), and Lurecraft have minimal bubbles, IF any at all!!!

Try cooking you plastic a little longer and I think you may get rid of some of your issues...

Jim