Better Layout Dye?

ddavelarsen

ddavelarsen

Joined
Dec 7, 2000
Messages
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I've been using Dykem Steel Blue, but it's pretty picky about the surface - must be clean and preferably not polished. So anyone know of something that's stickier? (not sure that's a word) Or what do others use?

Thanks,
Dave
 
I just use a scribe on the steel after it starts rusting or through the scale left behind from forging:p :D :D
A big wide black prmanent marker works real well also,and it dries allot faster than the dykem....
Bruce
 
Bruce, I also use a permanent marker, but when grinding, the heat messes up the color and makes it disappear. What brand of marker do you use?
 
I forget where I read it, but Reese Weiland's site comes to mind. Anyway, using the red Dykem (or perhaps a red marking pen) is supposed to make lines easier to see.
 
I've been using cold gun blue. Not as thick as dikem or as fast drying as marking pen. It's just what I had when I first need to mark.
Cheaply, Lynn
 
The big permanent marker I have is a Marks allot from Walmart...I don't scribe lines when I grind so I don't know if this will burn off though..
I use it when I scribe lines for file work or shaping a guard..
Bruce
 
Thanks gents. This sounds pretty much like my own story so I guess I'm on the right track. Haven't used cold blue though, might try it to see if it sticks better than Dykem. I've thought about the spray for use while grinding, but usually use a big marker for that. Seems to work... Next order from Travers I'll get the spray and see if I like blue fingers. :D

Thanks again,
Dave
 
I have both red and blue layout dye and the only one I ever use is the red. The scribed lines stand out better, even when the steel gets hot.
 
Regarding the sticking part, I've never had trouble getting Dykem to stick, and all I ever do is wash off the metal with dish soap and dry thoroughly. I turn on the stove fan (nasty fumes I suspect) place the metal on news paper, and brush on Dykem. Always works works quickly and easily. I am going to try red for greater visibility when the metal heats up on the grinder.
 
I'll check out the red too, and what the heck - I'll go for the red spray. RA, it's that "washing" part I was hoping to cut out. :) The smell reminds me of my Grandpa who was a machinist, so I don't mind the fumes too much.

Dave
 
I have noticed that a little Dyechem goes a long way, and it tends to sit around on my bench for a long time until I use it up, BUT it seems to go stale, or some of the solvent evaporates out of it or something, and it gradually loses its lacquery quick dry qualities. It starts drying dull and coming off on my fingers, almost in a powder. When fresh it works well for me and I prefer the blue. but it has to be replaced about once a year or so. Maybe you go through it quicker than I do though.
 
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