Bottom panels complete

Here are the two bottom panels taped and cut to shape.  I feel as if I am in the groove now and can get the side panels out a little quicker now. 

 

I did experiment with a number of release films for the fiberglass epoxy tape joints.

1.  6 mm plastic - was hard to get flat and fair.  wrinkles developed easily

2.  packing tape - harder to apply, but left a relatively smooth controllable surface.

3.  wax paper - best looking joint, but waxy residue must be cleaned.  I was warned by a more experienced builder that the wax could separate out of the paper, leaving a ghastly mess to clean up.  I did experience a little of this in the top joint, when I tried to remove the paper prior to full cure.  

Bottom line - will stick with the 6 mm plastic.  a little extra filling and sanding is part of the project.   

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Seat risers

This design is done up butterfly style. Where the two halves of the boat are stacked, stitched together with copper wire, then unfolded to make a three dimensional shape.

The seat stringers should have been tapered prior to glassing the panels together.  But, I was in a hurry.  the result was some cracking on the forward upper panel.  I will need to reinforce with glass when done.  the whole assembly is in the garage waiting to go three dimensional.  

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