Hi,

I'm new to composites, my first attempt was a hand lay up using carbon fibre and flax mixture, it didn't go as intended I've found flax very awkward to wet evenly and make good solid connection with the glass. 

I'm considering a vacuum, but this investigation was for a small project, which is now turning into a large investment including all consumables and vac accessories.

I'm not entirely sure I'm ready to invest in a set up just yet, especially if the experiment turns out to be a dud. I got told to come here from Reddit, I made a post explaining in more detail the project I'm working on: https://www.reddit.com/r/engineering/comments/cmsspm/i_just_messed_up_a_hand_lay_up_with_flax_and/

Is there any small or local cf / vac shops I could visit in the North west? Or anyone with a hobbyist set up that could/would help me create a flat, plain composite sheet? I'm near Manchester. 

There's lot of companies in aerospace and engineering near me in Burnley, but I'm not sure any of the will just let me rock up and use their equipment! 

Bit of a long shot anyone on here would be able to help, but thought it was worth asking!