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Hi I'm new to Dakka Dakka and don't really know how to use a forum but I had a question. I read somewhere that you need to wear a mask and gloves while using green stuff. Does anyone do this? Do I need to?
Thanks!

AFAIK the warnings are because of the reaction that occurs between the two parts as you mix them, and fumes given off. I wear non-powdered latex or nitrile gloves because I have very sensitive skin, but I've not bothered with a mask as I don't mix large quantities, don't do it regularly or for long periods at a time, and do it in a well ventilated room.
Also, welcome!

I've never worn a mask, though my level of experience is not great.

You probably want to wear gloves regardless, 'cause fingerprints suck.

Some people are sensitive to epoxy so might need to wear protection, but in general I have never been overly concerned.

It must be letting off some amount of epoxy fumes, but since it's slow cure and not a liquid, I don't think it gives off much fumes compared to, say, an epoxy adhesive.

As with all chemicals, read the instructions that come with the product.

I've never used gloves or a mask when handling GS. I've never been able to smell any noxious fumes, but that could be because I hardly ever mix up more then a wee bit. As for gloves, meh, they just get in the way.

Don't need a mask or gloves, just wash your hands after

I honestly don't even know how one would go about using GS with gloves on. That gak needs to have a fair bit of lubrication going on when working with it.

Yeah the protection is only for people with expoxy allergies; you'll know if that's something you have.

In regards to fumes, I've never heard or read about that before. There definitely isn't any strong odor when working with GS. Even if there were harmful fumes given off, the quantities used for the hobby are so small I wouldn't worry about it anyway.

You get more fumes off the glue you're using than if there's any off greenstuff. As for gloves, as noted above you should be fine provided that you're not allergic.

Fingerprints are an issue, but the solution to that isn't gloves (which as noted will stick to the greenstuff unless you use a lot of water); but Colourshapers (or clayshapers - same tool just different names). They are soft silicon tools that let you smooth over putties like greenstuff to a smooth finish. They are far better than using your fingers once the greenstuff is in the right position.


Heck go watch people mixing it up - almost all use their bare fingers. Provided you wash your hands after you should be fine.

When you are concerned about a thing like this a good idea is to review the MSDS for the product. You can eMail GW and they will send it to you.

Thanks for all the responses!
It doesn't seem like a big problem and I don't use much so I don't think I'll bother with gloves. They just get in the way and make it hard to use.