Currently converting a beat Ms. Pac cab into a Galaga and am wondering if black matte laminate would be a good option rather than the extreme sanding/priming/repainting as the weather turns colder. Has anyone else used laminate for their Galaga restoration/conversion? Any cons of going this route?
Laminate on a Galaga - Thoughts?
- Thread starter philt80
- Start date
I used Wilsonart Black 1595 on a galaga and looked great. Bought from:
John Alvelo
Top Cabinet Hardware
Miramar, FL 33027
888-509-6883
www.topcabinethardware.com
John Alvelo
Top Cabinet Hardware
Miramar, FL 33027
888-509-6883
www.topcabinethardware.com
Less work, better finish, zero cons. Just practice routing the laminate on a sample piece to get a feel for it, and get the appropriate routing bit made for laminate. Also, get vertical grade laminate, which is thinner. Lots of documented work on this site about working with laminate for reference and research.
WadeLanham
Well-known member
I restored one this way once, with vertical grade laminate. Turned out awesome.
nerdygrrl
Well-known member
It will come down if you want it to be authentic or not.
For me, I am terrible at painting. TERRIBLE so I go the laminate route. I have done several cabs this way. So much easier. You still have to make sure that everything is filled and sanded properly though. Any bumps, lumps, etc will show through the laminate.
I had a ryobi full sized router, but found the cheapo single hand router from Harbor Freight was much easier to work with. Just make sure you get a decent flush trim bit.
For me, I am terrible at painting. TERRIBLE so I go the laminate route. I have done several cabs this way. So much easier. You still have to make sure that everything is filled and sanded properly though. Any bumps, lumps, etc will show through the laminate.
I had a ryobi full sized router, but found the cheapo single hand router from Harbor Freight was much easier to work with. Just make sure you get a decent flush trim bit.
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I agree with the above comments, I caution though to make sure your edges are in good shape, the router will follow the pattern so if you have a ding or dent in the edge, it will also end up in your laminate.
WadeLanham
Well-known member
Note that the coin door placement is slightly different. Otherwise, I think most people would prefer a plywood MsPac based Galaga over the original horrible pressed paper Galaga cabinet. Assuming the person is not a stickler for originality.
