Making 3D keychains---a question

[Woodchuck]

Attached are a couple of the 3D keychains I have made using Steve's program. Cutting the second side is a challenge because you are going thru various thicknesses of the wood.

I know woodturners have a product called inlace that they can use on their turnings. My question is has anyone tried to use this to fill the 3D keychain, therefore making the key chain less prone to breakage?

[Marcellarius]

I haven't done any of  this but I heard of soaking the wood in a polyurethane/oil mixture and let it dry.
or soak it in superglue (be careful with your fingers)

did searched a little on Google, might have to do more yourself and try.

http://www.woodworking.com/forum/showthread.php?3921-Recipe-for-strengthening-wood

http://www.right-tool.com/pcpetwoodhar.html

http://www.woodworkingtalk.com/f2/solution-hardening-wood-20340/

[cdrover(Clyde)]

I have made a lot of these. Use a fine grain hardwood. I haven't had one break yet.

[Keefie]

Attached are a couple of the 3D keychains I have made using Steve's program. Cutting the second side is a challenge because you are going thru various thicknesses of the wood.

I know woodturners have a product called inlace that they can use on their turnings. My question is has anyone tried to use this to fill the 3D keychain, therefore making the key chain less prone to breakage?

Woodchuck, I have actually used the "inlace" from my woorturning to fill the voids in the 3D keychain, it worked very well but there is a lot of sanding afterwards. The only downside is thet Inlace is fairly expensive and you need a surprisingly fair amount to fill in the keyring so it works out expensive. You could always try a clear resin and mix a colour/stain with it or add coloured glitter which also might work.

Keefie
 

[dunk]

I don't see any reason to fill in the voids.  They are quite sturdy after they are cut.

[Woodchuck]

Thank all of you for your responses. After a quick internet check I see 8 oz of clear inlace is $18. So yes Keefie, that does seem  an expensive idea. (Colored or flaked was 4 oz for $18)

I am putting the first ones into normal use to see how they hold up.