Date: Wed, 24 May 2006 18:55:44 EDT
To: puptcrit-AT-lists.driftline.org
Subject: Re: [Puptcrit] Celastic


 
Although I have posted this information before, a replacement product for  
Celastic called Solvoset is readily available.  You can purchase it from  Alcone 
Company in sheets that are 20" X 57" -AT- $22 per sheet, and they will  deliver 
it to you. They sometimes carry 3 different weights, but lately only  seem to 
have medium weight. They have a web site:  alconeco.com
or you can call 800 466-7446.
 
It works the same as Celastic, with Acetone as the solvent. There are some  
slight differences. Celastic was a bit more flexible when wet and would stick 
to  itself better than Solvoset. On the other hand, Solvoset does not have as 
rough  a texture as the old Celastic and is easier to finish to a smooth 
surface. You  can solve the sticking problem by using Duco Cement on pieces that 
aren't  sticking where you want them. I will sometimes use both Solvoset and  
Celastic together.
 
Puppets made of these materials will likely last hundreds of years, and  
withstand hard usage, touring in all types of weather and packing  conditions. 
They are lightweight and durable.
 
I have adjusted my working procedure in consideration of the safety issues,  
and generally cast outdoors. I do not touch the acetone (it is absorbed 
through  the skin), but use tweezers and molding tools to handle wet pieces. I do 
not use  a respirator because I found that respirators absorb the acetone and 
retain the  odor for long periods. I try to make my puppets out of other 
materials, when  possible. I try to minimize my exposure to acetone as much as 
possible.
 
Good luck.
 
     -Steven->
 
 
 
 
In a message dated 5/24/2006 4:46:46 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,  
mmoynihan-AT-wi.rr.com writes:

I'd be  very interesting in hearing about anything as great as the 
original  celastic (that is non-toxic and non explosive, of course). The 
masks and  puppets I made using it 30 years ago are still around and 
completely  useable and have been reworked and re used by three 
generations of  performers.. I have seen nothing to beat its light 
weight, finishability,  strength, weight bearing ability, flexibility, 
heat-cold resistance or  water resistance. Any thermal plastics are 
useless in the temperature of a  van during a hot summer in WI. There 
are some wonder materials, but it is  too bad the old celastic was not 
replaces by a new improved product that  was also safe.

If you have the research/engineering  staff/money/fabrication capacity 
of Michael Curry there are probably more  options.

mjm




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