Cellulose nitrate (celluloid) sheet in a pearloid pattern. It is an opaque pattern which will cover up any surface underneath, apart from the thinner sheets which will allow a small amount of light through..
Celluloid is a very early plastic, its original development dating from the late 19th century. While it has fallen out of common usage, it is still widely used for specialist applications such as guitar pickguards, guitar picks, musical instruments (particularly accordians), jewellery and restoration projects. The sheets can be used either as a veneer to decorate a larger flat area, or smaller pieces can be cut out of it, for example guitar picks or shapes and logos for inlay.
Celluloid sheet can be cut easily with a scroll saw, jeweller's saw, steel-rule die, mill or even a laser cutter. Care should be taken when cutting to avoid getting the material too hot, as it may combust. Always store in a cool, dark, dry place away from heating appliances and direct sunlight.
The pattern runs all through the material so however it is cut, shaped or polished it will still retain its colour and appearance. The material can be adhered to wood using our Binding Cement; it can react adversely to other adhesives such as cyanoacrylate superglues. As well as this, celluloid dissolves in acetone, a property which can be used to stick it to wood without any adhesive - wipe the surface with acetone and tape in to place, the dissolved celluloid will dry and bind to the wood. Flat sheets can be stuck down use 3M 467MP double-sided adhesive (SKU LS8005). Thinner sheets (<0.3mm) will easily curve to even tight contours, while thicker (0.3mm-2mm) sheets can be made to bend by the application of very gentle heat.
Rothko and Frost Limited have been selling online since 2009. We supply a broad range of items for makers, many of which are under our own brands of dartfords, Incudo, Luthitec, Borderlands, Eco Yarn Co, Turners Mill and others. Our catalogue of products is carefully curated with quality and specialisation in mind. We believe in fast, efficient and friendly service and it is our priority that you get the supplies you need when you need them.