Free Ebony Star

Perhaps this is common knowledge among atm'ers but you can get free 2x3 foot samples shipped free directly from Wisonart.
http://www.wilsonart.com/laminate/consumer/products/index.asp

I'm doing my first project. Ordered a 10" optic set and started cutting plywood yesterday. Now for all the sanding, priming, drilling... Any recommendations for getting free or very cheap teflon? I'm using the basic free 10" Sidwalk Astronomer plans with some mods.

Joe, there is a surplus type store here in Orlando that has a limited supply of Teflon pads, approx 1" x 2.5" x 1/8" thick. 0.50 each. If you want me to pick some up let me know.
They already have been drilled and countersunk at the ends for screws to attach to a surface.

Walt

Hi Joe
Try Meridian Telescopes, they have various sizes of virgin teflon and not expensive. I purchased some 1"x12"x1/8" for $7 + shipping. They even take PayPal which made it very fast and easy to order.
Hope this helps
Buck

Is the sample 2x3 feet or inches? I think it is inches.

Check around your area for cabinet/countertop shops. Make friends with the folks. You may pick up some free "scraps" of textured laminate.

I've purchased a 4x8 foot sheet of Ebony Star from a local custom countertop shop. Not usually a retail outlet, I bought it using the club name. We were rebuilding a 12.5 dob at the time. While at the shop I picked up several free "sink cutouts" which were handy in other scope projects. The particleboard is not much use unless you keep it sealed to the elements. This high volume shop has a large open top trash container and a weekly "dumpster diving" trip found some more handy scraps.

Somehow, I think John Dobson would approve...