GD18 covering instructions - polythene

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GD18 covering instructions - polythene Cutting the polyfilm to size is the first job, Lay part assembled hex and pent panels in a top and tail layout to make best use of the polythene sheet. (see diagram below) Covering the dome framework with polythtene film is one of the most time consuming tasks when constructing your dome, if you take your time and make a good job the dome will look very tidy when finished, it's worth spreading this part over a few days so you don't get sick and rush it. Sand all the corners and edges so the poly film is not damaged when stretched over the framework. Paint the frames if you want at this stage. Unroll and cut the poly film to fit the hex and pent frames allowing about 2-3 inches overlap. Staple the poly film onto the middle third of a triangle base gently tensioning (see diagram below step 1 between the two red Xs) Pull the poly film firmly over the frame and staple in position 2. Continue to pull the poly cover towards each corner in turn, folding the edges neatly and stapling in position. Use canvas pliers to tension the poly film and staple in place from the centre of each side towards the corners. When the poly film is stapled all round the frame, trim excess polythene using a sharp knife. Tips: Cover the frames in a warm environment; also keep the roll of polythene film in a warm place for 24 hours before you attempt covering the frames. If you cover the frames in a cold environment the film may expand when warm weather comes causing the polythene to become loose on the framework. Avoid excessive pulling of the polythene over the frame with your hands; use canvas pliers or wide mouthed mole grips were possible. There are about 35 frames to cover and using your hands to tension the polythene can result in repetitive stress injuries to your fingers, wrists and forearms. Use a good quality staple gun (preferably electric or air powered) you will be putting hundreds of staples in, using a cheap stapler can result in staples not being fully driven into the wood which would require taping in with a hammer later. Some polythene covers have special treatments like anti-fog coatings etc and are marked showing which side is to go outside. Use coloured tape or something similar to mark the outside of the sheet when you cut covers from the roll for each frame. Related pages: GD18 Exploded view GD18 Base assembly instructions GD18 pre assembly instructions GD18 Overview

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