At our shop, we have a 3M air release tool (basically a retractable pin) that punctures the vinyl to release air bubbles to allow better adhesion to substrates. I'd like to obtain one in Canada for my own use. BUT they are expensive here...like almost $50.These tools are a MUST for every vinyl pusher out there (signs, car wraps, etc).
Anyone know of a better price (including shipping to Calgary)?
I have come across 3M and Avery air release tools.
I've tried eBay and searched many websites online but a lot of them require you to log in to check prices. Long story short, they are expensive little things for a simple concept...
The Avery air release tool is MUCH less expensive ($8.95-15.00) and they are retractable too but the shipping is what kills this deal for me here in Canada Those guys want like @$22 for shipping. So the total would be $31.08 USD (still have to convert that price to Canadian Dollars too....)
If I have to, I was thinking of buying one of these combos from USCUTTERS in the USA. It's a combo Xacto style knife with pin inserts. Not exactly what I had in mind but would work since I have a separate and real Xacto knife.
I have also hacked together a pen with a cut down pin glued to the pen shaft. It works but is kind of ghetto...would like the real meal deal if possible. I'm brand agnostic. Just want something reliable.
Thanks!
HI.
It really sucks that shipping prices went up so drastically last year. The only alternative I can think of is China. Look on eBay and search for products from China.
~John
Could you use one end of a pair of compass dividers ?
Or maybe even use both ends, and kill two bubbles at the same time :)
This is a perfect Chinese "Alibaba" style tool to knock off. But I haven't had luck yet...if I find something better, I'll update this thread.
Also it looks like a needle. My wife creates her own custom tools. For weeding tools she uses those pencils that take lead sticks. She removes the stick and replaces with a needle. You can use as a bubble popper too...
Sub GDG_John( ) said: HI. Also it looks like a needle. My wife creates her own custom tools. For weeding tools she uses those pencils that take lead sticks. She removes the stick and replaces with a needle. You can use as a bubble popper too... ~John
I have a hobby hand-drill. one that looks like an aluminum pen, with a chuck at the end. This is for hand drilling (by twirling/twisting the tool in your fingers) hobby items. What I have done is to throw out the drill bits (actually put them in my tool box, next to my other drill bits for my battery operated drill) and picked up a few sewing machine needles. I use those in the hand drill.