LAMINATING TIPS

Here are some tips for laminating SleeveArt® fabric onto a prosthetic socket or orthotic device:

Since we've seen the results, we now recommend E R Resin by PRS for laminating our SleeveArt fabrics. For information about this product click here. This is a crystal clear resin, so colors come through beautifully. Some of its other advantages are:

  • soap and water clean-up, no acetone
  • no shelf-life
  • no hazmat
  • super strong

Instructions - Perform your usual lay-up of Dacron felt (optional), then nyglass or similar, as usual. Then laminate the socket or device. Before you break out the plaster, rough up the outside with sandpaper. Now for the finishing layer: pull one white nylon sock or nyglass and the SleeveArt® fabric over the mold. Use a SleeveArt® laminating sleeve or wrap SleeveArt® fabric around the mold using "Spray 77" adhesive spray. Be sure to work out any wrinkles. Tie off each end. Apply your final PVA bag. Do not use a vacuum hose (nylon) as the final layer, SleeveArt should be your final layer. For a shiny finish, turn the PVA bag inside out before applying then laminate using a clear resin. Use a minimal amount of promoter (don't set the resin off too fast). Be sure to draw down firmly to remove excess resin with a parachute cord or similar. DO NOT SET RESIN OFF TOO FAST. Slow it down to a 20-30 minute or so lamination. Do not use full suction on vacuum, try half suction. These instructions are vital for best results especially when using the shiny foil fabrics and our custom printed sleeves, because the inks are heat and pressure sensitive.

NOTE: Please know that trying to cut corners by doing a single step lamination may not produce the desired or optimum result.  We will not guarantee our lamination products to clinics that do not follow our tips for a two step lamination.