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> I went with the traditional canvas(14 oz. #10 cotton duck), but coated it
> with Elast-o-Seal and Snow-Roof. This is gives it a very tough flexible
> finish. It dried enough to paddle in a few days, but I would wait a month
> (It takes that long to fully cure) before I gave it any rough use. I would
> not use canvas again with the roofing paint. The paint would not fully
> penetrate the canvas. Next time I will use a synthetic cloth such as
> polyester or nylon. I can get a lighter weight with the same strength for
> the same amount of money, or less. The paint will then fully penetrate and
> I will save some weight and won't have to worry as much about rot.
> I used monel staples to attatch the skin. The package cost $20 and I used
> almost half of the staples. Stapling was easy, pulling the canvas tight
> was hard, but very doable, expect sore fingers afterwards.
Check a local art supply store, or an online one, for a special pliers used for stretching canvas onto the wood 'stretcher bars' it is usually mounted on.
These pliers have a wide jaw for grabbing the cloth, and the side of the pliers has a hook-like shape which allows it to get hook over the edge of the sheer strip, and allow you to get some leverage for tightening the fabric. Then put in a few staples before you relax your grip and move on.
If you know any artists, or are near a school that teaches art, ask to borrow one for a day. They cost in the neightborhood of $15 US.
The link at teh bottom is to one model that sells for under $10. This link is to the "Deluxe model" which is over $22 US.
http://www.db-secure.com/zz089/05/products.asp?param=0&ig_id=592
Hope this helps.
Paul G. Jacobson
This is an archived message from The Kayak Building Bulletin Board.
Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
