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12 gauge single-strand copper wire (plastic coated) is cut to a 3.5 inch length to
form the structure of the nose clip. It is flexible, but firm enough
that it doesn't relax when on the nose. It is readily
available at hardware stores.
The
ends are curled over to provide a firm, flat surface upon which the foam
may be glued. |
Quarter-inch minicel foam strips are cut 3/4 inch wide. Four little squares of foam
are needed for each nose clip. The foam is easier to handle if cut
to final size after cementing.
One good coating of contact
cement is brushed on one side of each foam strip and allowed to get tacky
(10 or 15 minutes). Then a second good coat is applied and allowed
to get tacky.
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The wire is laid down on the form, approximately 3/4"
apart.
A drop of contact cement is
dabbed on each curved wire end after it is placed on the foam.
Alternatively, they could have been brushed or dipped in contact
cement. One way or another, we want a good, strong contact
cement bond. We don't want the clips we give to friends to come
apart!
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The wires are encased in minicel, then cut to size.
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Completed nose clips. The foam is cut square, then the
corners are trimmed off to make an 8-edged foam block.
There is no need to attach a string to these nose clips, unless the
paddler does not have a pocket or deck shock cord to store the clip when
not in use.
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They stay well on the nose and float, although
would be nearly impossible to find if lost in whitewater. I keep a
few in my zippered vest PFD pocket.
If you try these clips, I think you will
find them more comfortable and more effective than most store-bought
clips.
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