Skip to main content
search
0

Battle Ready

Custom hydro-dipped Fatshark HD goggles

The Metamorphosis…

We’ve all seen the different versions of the Taranis X9d Plus, and some of the designs are pretty sweet. That got me thinking, I wonder how hard would it be to hydro-dip my Fatshark’s? So the experiment with hydro-graphics begins…

Preparation

In order for this to work I needed to bring the goggles back to their original state, before disassembling and cleaning them. Let the work begin. The vinyl sticker wrap that I had on the goggles was stuck on far better than I had imagined (as you’ll see in the video). I made it a point to be very cautious when taking the goggles to not lose anything and to also remember exactly how they came apart.

The Dip

Step 1: Apply the Base Coat (Primer)

I applied 3 coats of the primer (allowing drying time between coats). I then assembled the goggles and applied base coat as a touch up to any un-primed areas. The base coat needs to completely dry before moving to the next step.

Step 2: The Dip

**IMPORTANT**

  • Water temp should be 80 degrees F / 26.7 degrees C
  • Allow film to sit on water for 60 seconds before spraying the activator.
  • Allow the activator approximately 10 seconds on the film before dipping your goggles.

I chose to make a frame for the different pieces of film out of foam board and painters tape. The film needs to be placed into the frame so that the glossy side will be facing down when you put it into the water. Using the frame helps to keep the wrinkles to a minimum.

Set yourself a timer for 1 minute and place the film glossy side down into the water. Try not to get any water on the top (dull) side of the film.

Spray the activator evenly over the film from about 12″ and allow it to sit for 10 seconds. You’ll notice the film seems to disolve, leaving only the image on the water.

Slowly dip the goggles into the tub and once fully submerged gently shake them and then remove them from the water.

Set the goggles in a clean (dust-free) area to dry. Allow the goggles time to FULLY dry before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Applying the Clearcoat

Apply the clearcoat evenly. I applied 3 coats (allowing drying time between coats).

Step 4: Assembly

Carefully reassemble the goggles and that’s it. You’re finished!

Materials List

**Hydro-Dipping Equipment**

**Camera Equipment**