Plastic keytop repair

[Robert Goodale]

Clyde Hollinger wrote:

> Friends,
>
> Two days ago I tuned for an elderly lady who claims to have graduated
> from Peabody Conservatory and owns a 1940 Winter spinet (I know,
> something doesn't quite add up here).  Three of the keytops have nicks
> in the front edge.  She asked about having the nicks repaired.
>
> Advice?  I've heard about the chip repair kits but haven't tried them.
> Even though the yellowed keytop could be matched in color, wouldn't the
> color of the keytop change as one puts the finishing touches on the
> repair material with sandpaper or steel wool or whatever?  How should I
> advise this client?

A method you might want to try involves using colored epoxy.  Mix some
white color powder, (used for furniture and case touchup), with some high
quality 24 hour type epoxy.  The color might not match perfectly but we are
only talking about a small chipped area.  It shouldn't look to bad.  Other
color powders can be added to make it a little more yellow, gray, etc.

Rough up the plastic around the repair first to give the epoxy a fresh dirt
free surface to cling to.  Use masking tape to create whatever "dams" are
needed to keep the epoxy from dripping.  Once it is cured and dried, (at
least 24 hours - I like to wait until at least 35 or so), use files, sand
paper, razor blades or other shaping tools to properly match the contours.
As an option you could also clean all of the keys with some steel wool to
brighten them up a bit and help blend the repair.

Good Luck!

Rob Goodale, RPT
Las Vegas, NV