Using PVA as a mask

[coryatjohn]

I've been using PVA (Poly Vinyl Alcohol) as a release agent for mold making and it dawned on me that this stuff might make for a good spray on mask. PVA is a liquid that when dry, turns into a plastic film that nothing sticks to. It washes off with water and resists epoxy and other harsh chemicals. Seems like it might make a good, inexpensive and easy to use mask.

[Bud Meade]

Where do you purchase the PVA?

[coryatjohn]

You can get it virtually anywhere. I bought mine from a fiberglass supply. When ordering, be sure you buy non-diluted PVA as some of it is diluted already so it sprays easier. The diluted version is virtually the same cost so get the concentrate and dilute it yourself with alcohol so it sprays. If you brush it on, it's better to use the concentrate as it sticks to the brush better. I find a simple pump spray bottle works just fine.

[Bud Meade]

Thanks for the info

[phil_o]

Many years ago I worked in a cabinet shop. They used a liquid vinyl product, sprayed on, as a paint mask. It dried to a skin coating and peeled off easily when ready. I think it was a poly vinyl product.

Phil