How to Make a GIANT 8 Cup Fluid Bed to Paint Jigs!

My powder paint selection is growing so I needed a fluid bed with more capacity. Solution - covert my 4-Cup system to an 8 cup! Nothing too complicated - super easy to replicate! Hope you enjoy!
Total build cost (at today's material prices) for just the bed (not include pain cups): ~$150.
Materials Needed for Fluid Bed:
- 24" x 10" slab of wood
- 2 Foot piece of 2" PVC cut in 2" pieces (for air base). Leftover 4" you can use to make an additional paint cup.
- 8 - 2" Couplers
- 8 - 2" Test Caps
- 2 Foot piece of 1" PVC for manifold/regulator
- 2 - 1" end caps
- 8 - 1/4"OD Sharkbite valves
- 1/4" Vinyl tubing
- Gorilla Glue Gel
- 1/4" Drill Bit
- Clear Silicon
- Fluval Q2 Aquarium Pump with adjustable air pressure
Tools for Fluid Bed:
- Drill
- Hacksaw or other method of cutting PVC
- Tubing cutters (I used angle cutters... scissors... razor blade, whatever works)
Materials Needed to Make Paint Cups:
- 2" PVC cut in 3" pieces (I like 3 inch... could go 4", wouldn't go less than 3" but that's just me)
- Brown Paper bag (elementary school "lunch bags" work great - thinner than grocery paper bags)
- 2" Coupler
- 2" Test Cap
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#SoliDeoGloria #SDGCustomLureCraft

[@oguygeoo6523]

I am getting all my supply’s today to build my own and have been watching your older video. You couldn’t have posted this at a better time thanks!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Fantastic! Love to hear it was a timely help to you!

[@jbclouser]

As always great vid, after your last paint bed video I purchased all the parts to build my own. As a beginner your vids are the best for explaining the process, thank you for your knowledge!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Its my pleasure Jim, and thank you for the kind words my friend, my appreciated!

[@tennesseekayakfishing5691]

I don’t know how your channel has not come up in my recommended videos until now. I don’t yet make anything but love to learn. I’m very impressed with your video style and professionalism. You deserve more views than you are getting. Looking forward to catching up on past videos. Amen on your priorities.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks man, truly appreciated! KZbin is a marathon, few sprint, and hey… it’s about sharing a passion for the craft with like-minded builders (and doing it all for the glory of God!) so I’m enjoying the journey. :) Glad you found me! #SoliDeoGloria!

[@3HandsCustomTackle]

Good morning Adam. Great video with easily understood explanations of why’s and how’s 👍👍

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks Art! It was a fun project :)

[@jamesphillips2216]

Great video!! Very informative, super cool design, I’ll definitely be copying this design soon!! Thanks for sharing Adam!! Looking forward to more videos in 2022!!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks James! I'm looking forward to a great year as well!

[@teamfishlineswfl9099]

Agree 100% with Jim your videos are excellent !!!!!! Great work !!!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks man! Glad you’re enjoying the channel!

[@JIGSQUAD]

Loved it! Very functional build. Five cups is more than enough, but nice to have 8 on the deck and just switch over the valve systems. I see this exact build coming in the months ahead. Oh, and by the way, I noticed all that "eyelash" material in the background bins. Good man ;)

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

#IYKYK! I’ll be noting that new material on an upcoming video - all 8 colors, LOL! Thanks for the comment man! The bed definitely turned out nice!

[@robertchadwick1552]

Thanks for sharing that DIY. I've been just dipping jigs into the containers that they come in. I'm going to build a fluid bed using your tips. Hopefully it will make the jigs look better.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Sounds great Robert! Best of luck man, I hope it works out great for you!

[@joshwhite8055]

This bed is sweet !!! I've got to get myself one up and going .

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks man! You won’t regret it!

[@JHorvathCinema]

Yes! Just built a little rig to color zipper sliders, it never occurred to me to make more than one cup

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Definitely makes it more efficient! 👍👍

[@jrjeter1]

So glad to finally discover channel! Looking forward to much more interaction. Your baits are amazing and would love to incorporate your knowledge into moving from tying flies for trout to crappie jigs and bass baits. Appreciate you Adam and thanks for sharing your awesome craft!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Glad you found me Jeff! Welcome to the channel!

[@robertfrance6843]

Nice, nice, nice project. As usual another great video.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Much appreciation Robert, thx!

[@samhiss6807]

Suggestion...epoxy the couplers directly to the board & superglue the diaphragm to the bottom of the pvc cup.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks for the feedback! My intent regarding the filter is to keep it “detached” so it’s easy to replace as needed. Glueing it would certainly work, but be a bit messy if/when it’s time to swap it out (I’ve been know to poke a nice hole in them from time to time!!). Appreciate the suggestion though!

[@AddictedAngler]

Real neat set up

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Appreciate it man, thanks!

[@robert_roman.]

Great video, very detailed I’m excited to build my own, running out to grab supplies today Thanks again

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Sweet! Thanks man, glad to hear you like it!

[@robert_roman.]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft where did you purchase the plastic test caps ? All I could find were PCV test caps

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

@@robert_roman. mine are plastic as well, sounds like you found the right stuff! Should be right there with the PVC supplies!

[@perryk5503]

Amazing idea

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

She works wonders! Glad you liked it!

[@iseerednecks88]

Everyone is using a aquarium pump. Why not use a air compressor fitting and hook it to your air compressor and use the regulator to give your 30 psi or whatever psi you require to get the paint moving and use the valves to control the flow. Just a thought. Love the build. Tight lines

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Hey Rob, great question, and you may be able to make it work. I attempted an air compressor on my first 4-cup build ages ago and it didn’t work out for me. The steady, consistent, flow of the aquarium pump was the ticket for this guy!

[@richshackelford5793]

Thanks for sharing Adam, I made one like the first one you made. Very satisfied with 4 paint containers

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

My pleasure Rich, yup I loved my 4-cup! Most of the time I'm sure I'll use only 2-4 at one time, but it sure is nice if I have more colors to burn through - turn off, turn on, I'm off to the races!

[@themackguyverchannel7713]

Lower the manifold size to 3/4 or 1/2 inch pipe. It’ll raise the pressure at the valves.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Appreciate the feedback!

[@fishntools]

They DO make PVC needle valves for precision regulation of air!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

👍👍 thanks for the heads up!

[@CatfishWeekly]

Awesome video Adam!!!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thank you my friend!

[@paulharwood1281]

Great video, did you ever try to open the valve furthest from the pump on the manifold first and then work back? Just food for thought :)

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks Paul! I did not try that, interesting thought! Since this video I upgraded my pump - she kicks out enough juice to get all 8 cups rolling no problem! Pretty cool sight!

[@Bamdoggs]

Mwa-ha-ha… More Power!! 😎 The usual great video… u shoulda been a teacher man! 👏🏻

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

LOL, during a "Jury Duty" stint I was told by a fellow juror that I should have been a lawyer! Teacher is probably a better option, ha! Thanks for the feedback... I haven't stopped thinking about a 300 gallon Fluval Q(whatever)... see if we can't get all 8 crankin' at once!

[@Bamdoggs]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft Teacher may make u feel better but the lawyer option will certainly fill ur pockets a whole lot quicker !

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

@@Bamdoggs truth

[@awfoutdoors6299]

Appreciate it, been wanting to make one. 👍🏼

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

My pleasure! Hope it works out well for you!

[@fuzzyfultz]

Thanks fir sharing brother.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Your welcome my friend!!

[@jamesbaker7062]

1 FLUID BED WITH MULTIPLE CUPS WITH MULTIPLE COLORS IS SO MUCH CHEAPER

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Glad you found a way that works for ya!

[@WestMichiganJigCo]

I am building 2 5 cups this weekend

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Sweet!

[@itvisor1]

So many thanks to you :))

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

My pleasure!

[@ricknightingale6446]

I’m not sure, but if the manifold tube was a smaller diameter it might increase the pressure through each valve with the same volume of air being pumped. As long as it was still big enough to get your tubes into it and sealed.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks for the comment Rick! You may be right, or it may be a zero sum game so long as the capacity is filled regardless of size. That would be an interesting experiment!

[@lilcheeps6147]

I would add a second pump coming in the other end to double your air

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Definitely an option! 👍👍

[@13thworker45]

I did enjoy your video , I have built a 12 unit two tier with the pump enclosed with a piece of pipe inside. I tried Two coffee filters. It did not work. I just used shoe goo to glue computer paper to one cup. I’ll try it in the morning. T j s does work well. I have tried to find that filter with no luck. This is my third build. It should work. If I’m not happy with computer paper I will try the paper bag. Thank you for your channel.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Definitely can be a trial and error process! Glad you got it working and have a plan to continue! And thanks for the kind words regarding the channel - much appreciated!

[@pauleyedwin6056]

Adam I mainly watch Crappie, Bream and Trout videos. I’m working hard trying to watch them all. Are you using the color shift powder paints on any of your Jig heads? Would I be able to use color shift for my Jigs or are the colors not right for what I want to build?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

I definitely use colorshift powder pigments on my jig heads (either premixed colorshift or I mix my colorshift soft pastic pigments with clear powder pigments to create a jig head paint). IMO, you can rarely go wrong with a little colorshift!

[@Rem1061]

FWIW, a "standard" (there actually isn't any standard) for a coffee filter is around 20 microns. As near as I can tell, the average size for powder particles is around 30um. I have been trying to find either a stainless or nylon mesh filter material to use, so far the smallest I can find is 80 micron, 39X78 for 9 bucks, which would more than do for what I need. If I can ever find some 20 I will post a link here.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks for the input!

[@jamesbullard9247]

Are you gluing the coupler to the bottom 2 inch pvc or keeping the coupler with the top 3 inch piece to slide it on the bottom 2 inch piece of pvc? Looking to build one to make my own jigs. Thank you

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

The coupler stays with the top piece but isn’t glued to it either. The filter between the couple and top 3” piece seals it nice and tight. No glue also allows you to swap out the filter in the future, should you want to change the color in that cup or if (when :)) you accidentally poke a hole in it, LOL!

[@jamesbullard9247]

Thank You for responding!

[@sjbill1793]

Those sharkbite valves are $10.88 at lowes. Brass on Amazon is equal or cheaper.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Yup, Amazon has some options that are definitely less expensive!

[@clublon]

Hi! Getting ready to build my fluid beds. How do you separate these if you want to do a different color. If you pull out the 3” piece the paper will fall off and your paint will fall out the bottom. So, I assume you separate them at the bottom of coupler? Thanks for your videos and help!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Correct, the coupler stays with the top cup (between which is the filter). The bottom piece, with the bottom cap, is glued down permanently.

[@clublon]

Thanks for the reply!! One more quick question, do you have any recommendations for a source of bulk feathers for jig tying? I am only finding sellers of 1/3 ounce lots. I am looking for bulk. Thanks!!

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

@@clublon I do not, but if I was after something like that I’d check eBay and Etsy… even AliExpress - sometimes I can find bulk stuff on there.

[@clublon]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft Thanks!

[@djradrs199]

??? would ridged tubing work better for the valve system set up when turning them on /off or adjusting ?? or does the flexable tubing still allow you to turn the valves easily ??/ enquiring minds want to know ,,,, ( things that make you go Heeeeeemmm ) either way it's a thing of beauty well done good man

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Great question Dan. You could indeed swap it out for something more rigid, but there’s so little of it that the short length keeps it stable. I haven’t had to wrestle with it wishing it was more rigid. Definitely an option though!!

[@djradrs199]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft Muchos Gracias El Jefe Adam .... I'm headed to Home depot after work ....( shhhhh don't tell the wife , she already thinks i'm getting obsessed with get'n Jiggy with it...LoL said HEY if i'm gonna get into making Jigs,, I want to have a Clean looking Set up like SDG Custom,,,, ..then I stuck My tongue at her and made na na faces ( after she turned her back Of course ) .... eeeeeee :-)

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Good luck!

[@user-lj7zg4oq5m]

Доброго дня ! Я из России очень понравилось Ваше изобретание, скажите что это за стаканы для чего они и как получается что через бумагу проходит воздух?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

The cups are made from PVC. The filter is thin enough to let air pass through 👍👍

[@dabblingangler6854]

Just watched the video this morning and I may have missed something. How are you removing the cups without getting paint everywhere. Do you have another video that shows this part of the process?

[@dabblingangler6854]

Never mind. It was way too early and the coffee had not kicked in😂 I answered my own question. Remove at the coupler not the paint cup 🤦🏼‍♂️

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Thanks for watching! The base is glued to the board. The filter is between the top section (where you put the paint) and the coupler. When you pull the cup off to swap out the paint, you pull the coupler with it (the base stays put since it’s glued down). As such, the filter (inside the coupler) is the “floor” holding the paint in. Hope that makes sense!

[@groundedfilms5877]

Do you ever notice sometimes a fluid bed makes the glitter sink to the bottom and when you dip The Jig you don't get the same effect or is it just me?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

I haven’t noticed that, no. The nature of the fluid bed, infusing air, should do the opposite actually… keeping the flake suspended. May be a paint issue - I’ve heard some don’t do as well as others.

[@TheSioutdoors]

bulkhead fittings exist

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Yup, definitely an option, so long as they seal on a curved surface 👍

[@LetsCrappieFish]

Question: If I order a 2" fluid bed, with the 2" cups fit or do I need to order 3" bed with 2" cups? I'm going to be swapping out the cups (colors) as I go like you do. Thanks.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

They should be consistent, 2’s with 2, 3’s with 3. Etc. good luck!!

[@LetsCrappieFish]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft Thanks buddy! I appreciate that.

[@jamesfreda1903]

Hi, Adam. Have you powder coated any Tungsten jig heads? I'm curious because I just received a few unpainted ones in three sizes. Thanks

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Hey James, I have not tried tungsten, but I imagine the process would be similar. The heat needed to melt the paint is, I’m sure, far less than anything that would damage the weights. Even so, I’d probably test run just one all the way through curing to make sure… that stuff isn’t cheap!!

[@chuckstuckey9450]

Add another pump on the other end of the manifold

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Yup, definitely an option that would work if I ever decided I needed all 8 rockin and rollin at the same time! Thanks for the feedback!

[@pauleyedwin6056]

Love you vides’s but i’m missing something. How do you remove the cup to change out color without a couple of monkey wrenches? I think mine will break before coming apart.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

If the cap you’re referring to is the bottom cap that was glued to the baseX that stays put. The collar and top piece (with the filter installed between them) hold the paint and allow you to swap out the entire cup. If I didn’t follow your question, let me know!

[@pauleyedwin6056]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft I need to watch your video again on how it’s assembled. Thanks.

[@danbernskoetter]

I see the aquarium pump is no longer available on Amazon.

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Ah, bummer. A google search should yield a couple other suppliers. Online pet shops tend to carry it as well.

[@danbernskoetter]

@@SDGCustomLurecraft I found one. Thx

[@speedbuggy4095]

Why did you not use hose barbs?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Great question, thanks! I absolutely could have, a lot of guy do. For me, the extra cost wasn't necessary/warranted as the tube is air tight with silicon. But, 100%... definitely an option that would work! 👍👍

[@pauleyedwin6056]

Has anyone tried 1 1/2” PVC Fluid Beds for smaller Jigs?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

I have not, but if you're only working with small heads there's no reason it shouldn't work for ya!

[@johnrisko2328]

Where can I buy air valves??

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Hey John, thanks for watching! I picked these up at Lowes, but I'm sure any hardware store would have them. I've also heard of guys finding them on Amazon for a bit cheaper, so I'd check there as well!

[@juliusjames5577]

Why stop at 8?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

LOL! Space and space alone my friend!

[@juliusjames5577]

Just kidding! I only use 1 and change out per color.

[@MOHillbilly513]

They are dirt cheap on Amazon

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Hadn't considered Amazon, good thought! I found these... not sure of the quality compared to Sharbites, but they look close! amzn.to/3HIb4v3

[@natekubilis6334]

Yeah store 4 more colors lol

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

More the merrier!!

[@natekubilis6334]

So I’m looking into making a fluid bed myself glad I watched both your 4 cup and 8 cup videos, I found a pump vivosun 1110 GPH air pump made for aquariums and hydroponics but it $60 and comes with a manifold already with 8 valves built into the manifold already as well. Think I’ll start with 4 cups then add more as needed with just a simple connection of a air line

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Sounds awesome man!

[@speedbuggy4095]

Why did you not use hose barbs?

[@SDGCustomLurecraft]

Great question, thanks! I absolutely could have, a lot of guy do. For me, the extra cost wasn't necessary/warranted as the tube is air tight with silicon. But, 100%... definitely an option that would work! 👍👍