Double Ended Burnisher

An Excel double-ended burnisher for decals and films

A burnisher is a tool with a smooth rounded tip that neither cuts nor digs in. Its task is to transfer pressure to a surface evenly enough for the material to be pressed down and to adhere without tearing. In modeling practice it is used above all where something is applied to a surface and has to settle into recesses as well.

Where it comes into its own

Dry transfers are transferred precisely by running a burnisher over the carrier film until the motif releases and adheres to the model. Self-adhesive masks are pressed down with a burnisher against the edges of frames and the borders of cutouts so that paint does not bleed under them. Metal and self-adhesive film is smoothed with it into the relief so that it follows the shape and makes no bubbles. It will also serve well for closing a small furrow or burnishing putty down on a smooth surface.

Why two ends

Each end works with a different radius. The larger one spreads the pressure across an area, so it suits large surfaces and straight edges where you do not want to make a scratch. The smaller one reaches into a corner, into a panel line and to the border of a small cutout, where a large tip would bridge the film and leave it standing above the edge. While working, turn the tool in your hand according to where you are, and press steadily rather than with a jolt.

Who the tool is for

• Modelers who work with dry transfers
• Work with self-adhesive masks and films
• Smoothing film into relief and against edges
• Every bench where there is more masking done today than there used to be

Keep the tip clean and smooth, as residue of glue or a scratch will print into every film that follows. The tool is not intended for scribing or for prying.