Mini Flock Applicator

I designed this flocking applicator for two main reasons: I needed one that was small, and I was learning a new CAD program. The only natural solution was to design something overly engineered and needlessly complicated where two cylinders, a couple of holes, and a little electrical tape would do. Half the purpose was to learn the tool and here we are.

Print the four parts in 0.2mm layers (0.25 should also be fine) using your favorite filament. I don't recommend flexible (TPU) filaments, it won't be a fun time.

Piston Assembly: Get some 4mm PTFE tubing. Cut one length such that it wraps around the piston in the bottom grooves about 1.25 turns. Plug at least one end of the tubing (filament, glue, whatever). Place the tubing into the cylinder as shown in the photo with as much of it pre-bent so that it touches the walls (photo isn't the best example, do better). Screw the piston down into the cylinder so that the piston engages the tubing in the threads and hits the stop block. This part is a pain in the rear so just stick with it.

Cylinder Assembly: Push piston fully into cylinder. Get some more 4mm PTFE tubing and slide it into the groves at the top of the cylinder such that it starts to wrap around the piston. Insert until it hits the stop block on the cylinder. Mark for your cut line so that the tubing fully rests below the top of the cylinder. Pull back the tubing enough to make your cut. Plug the end of the tubing. Reinsert tubing to the stop block.

Usage: Use the funnel to fill the applicator with flock then remove it and replace with the cap when you do the application. The funnel is strictly optional but its a bit of a mess without it. If you try and cover the funnel with your hand to use the applicator, it won't be a fun time.

FAQ

Q: Does flock get all over the place?
A: Yes. Most of it shoots straight out of the nozzle at the bottom of the cylinder. Some will escape past the tubing due to tolerances. I tried to find a nice balance between assembly and performance. Don't go ham and it will only leak a tiny bit.

Q: Seriously, how do I get it to not be messy?
A: You don't. Flock gets everywhere because good flock is super fine. Move the piston up and down about 10-20mm at a time and do it slowly. It doesn't require much force or speed. Wear your respirators, kids. You really don't want to end up with flock in your lungs. Use a box, or better, use something with active ventilation.