The repairs done to the plastic (or any other type of material) is often very painstaking. To properly repair a fracture or crack in a plastic case takes a number of steps. 1st the crack or fracture must be cleaned to remove all foreign material (grease, dirt and other contaminants). Then the proper adhesive, usually a cyanocrylate or epoxy (depending on the type of plastic) must be chosen and worked into the crack or fracture. I then clamp in place until cured. After curing is complete I "micro-sand" to smooth it out and make the repair as invisible as possible (micro-sanding consists of using a series of flexible sanding cloths from 1500 to 8000 grit). Depending on the staining at the fracture depends on whether the repair will be invisible or not. Prior to applying the adhesive I also attempt to "bleach out" any stains. This is not always possible as some plastics absorb contaminants. After all the sanding is done the finishing touch is a good rubbing with a plastic polish. This makes a nice solid, smooth repair even if the fracture or crack is still visible.

If there are chunks or pieces missing and I deem it worthwhile I will mold in a suitable material that I have dyed to match the original color, then go through the above process to blend it in. I don't do this very often as it take sooooooooo much time, but I have been know to do it just for the challenge.

The above processes are very time consuming and often is not worth the time it takes. I would not consider doing it for anyone but myself. My practice is to do the best I can when I restore something whether I intend to keep it or not.

click here for an example of one of my repairs

click here for more info on restorations