Homebrew PCBs

"lcdpublishing" <lcdpublishing@...> writes:
> I have not found a reliable method of applying the film without bubbles.

I've had good luck with water and a heat gun, based on Adam's technique:

Wash the board and leave it wet.

Remove the first backing off the film and rinse the film too.  Place
it on some overhead transparency, exposed side still exposed, for
manageability.

Re-rinse board and film.  Pick up the transparency (which picks up the
film too), flex it a bit so the film bulges out, and apply the film to
the board.  Most of the water/air gets out at this point.

While the transparency is still on top of the film, use a credit card
or other squeegie to squeeze out as much water as you can.  Hold the
transparency still with the other hand; this protects the film against
damage.

Peel off the transparency.  Note: do not yet peel off the film's
second backing layer.

Heat the film with the heat gun while continuing to gently squeegie
out the remaining water (if any).  I heat until it's just a bit too
hot to hold in my bare hand, and the film is dry, and that seems to be
just right.

Too much heat and it bubbles and wrinkles.