Posted by Bob A on January 17, 2003 at 10:12:11:
In Reply to: Thanks for sharing posted by Barry on January 16, 2003 at 17:15:31:
Well... since you ask, I started building my first boat (Glen-L PowerYak)in July of 2000. I completed it (mostly) in the summer of 2002. I enjoyed the experience, and learned a lot in the process. I learned there will be frustrations and problems to solve, as with any new endeavor. I also learned to slow down and think about the problem and seek out information from others (ie. the Glen-L site, local boatbuilding supply shops, etc). That connection with other builders has been one of the most enjoyable parts of the experience.
Here's a few tips I picked up along the way:
1) Haven't got enough clamps for the sheer? Get some PVC pipe and slice with a handsaw into 1" to 1 1/2" pieces. Then make a cut in each each one. Presto, you have a huge number of clamps for very little money. I used 70 on the PowerYak sheers.
2) Use a cabinet scraper (preferably one with a ball handle and another handle to apply pressure)to remove and level cured resin. Less dust, and a lot of control.
A word of warning, watch out, this boatbuilding can become addictive. I still have a few things to complete on the PowerYak, but have already started work on a 20' Huck Finn, and have also purchased the plans for the Dyno Mite that I will build with my son.
Thanks to all that shared their knowlege and experiences with me.