And Here is a Reader's Post-Mod Hack that is now a Post about my Post about my Mod... ;-)

I received this today from a reader in response to yesterday's post – it is another nifty way to install a glass palette into the Strada Mini. I would think this would work for the full size Strada as well...

Posted with permission:

"Hi Thomas, I saw your blog and I solved the problem this way. I had a friend build me a small insert into which I glued glass. I put it between the notches and inside the area where the side trays go. So far I have been very happy with it." 

  –  Marie H.

(Photos by Marie)

It is great to see other folks making hardware hacks to their gear. It demonstrates creativity and ingenuity in another way, if those two aren't already the same thing...

UPDATE: 

Another email about another palette mod for the Mini...

Hi Thomas 

I enjoy your blog and thanks for all the great info. 

I wanted to share one thing. For over 5 years I have used acrylic plastic for a palette, I paint the back side grey. I saw another artist who did this and I thought as you did you cant scrape it with a razor blade so it cant be as good as glass. Well I was wrong...I tested it out and yes it scratches eventually, I change mine every few years...but my glass scratched too over time. Having broken a couple in transit I made the change. You would not have to mod the box by grinding it down etc. you could just caulk it in. It would be so much lighter and easier and leave the box intact. 

I asked Tap plastic about plexi or acrylic, and they said acrylic is harder( and cheaper) I have used all kinds of solvents, turps gamsol, mostly, no problem. But once I left a clove oil q-tip in and the clove oils melted a spot a bit, and so will Winsor Newton Brush Cleaner and Restorer. 

I scrape off the thicker stuff, then wipe with a towel and final clean with an alcohol pad....the same system as Schmid, only on acrylic instead of glass.
Just thought I'd let you know in case you want to share with readers....My 3 year old palette is about ready for a change, but its still useable, just have to use the alcohol a bit more to get the paint all out, to squeaky clean. 

Sincerely,

Colleen

Thanks for sharing, Marie and Colleen! Always welcome to see.

TJK

____

Would you like to improve your outdoor painting skills in Italy this next September? If so, click here to learn about my annual Plein air Tuscany! workshop. It is a fantastic experience and garners rave reviews! 

If you want even more info send me an email asking for a FAQ Sheet. It will detail where we will stay, what we will do, what we will learn, and of course, what it will cost. But wow, the US dollar is strong against the Euro right now so there may never be a better year to go than in 2015. Registration is open and folks ARE signing up!...