The WEST SYSTEM® 808 Plastic Spreader, sometimes referred to as a “squeegee,” is a great all-around tool for most epoxy applications. This is a thin, flexible, yellow plastic rectangle used to spread mixed epoxy, force epoxy into glass fabric, remove excess epoxy, and extract air bubbles trapped under fiberglass fabric. This simple tool is indispensable for removing excess epoxy to save weight. It’s also the most widely used tool for applying thickened epoxy putties for fairing and filleting operations.
The WEST SYSTEM 809 Notched Spreader is best for applying thickened epoxy mixtures. This is a rigid plastic square with three notched edges and one smooth beveled edge. The notched edges, each with a different notch size, are used to apply a controlled and consistent amount of thickened epoxy to a surface. The deeper notches apply more material than the shallower notches. The smooth edge can be used as a rigid to force excess resin and air out of a laminate, much like the more pliable 808 Plastic Spreader.