Tasmanian Shipwrights & Co. was founded by a group of young shipwrights from southern Tasmania who sought to create a company dedicated to preserving and advancing the art of wooden boat building. Nathan O’Neill and Matt Stevens founded and now lead the company. Their team currently comprises three individuals, a mix of full-time and casual ... Boats, Baths, and Bespoke Builds More
The SailZero Project. Their goal? To design an efficient cruising boat that minimises reliance on fossil fuels and lithium. The duo behind this ambitious project have expertise in traditional wooden sailboat building and modern engineering. They aim to create a distinctive, eco-friendly boat. The boat’s modern, open plan interior will be constructed using lightweight composite ... SailZero: A New Wave More
“My name is Carl Berlin and I’m a boatbuilder originally from a small town called Pojo in Finland. I studied wooden boatbuilding from 2009 to 2011 at ‘Kuggomskolan’ in Lovisa.” Carl continued to practice his craft as a subcontractor for several years, building his reputation and expertise in preserving nautical heritage. This journey culminated in ... Preserving Nautical Heritage More
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of owning a boat that’s uniquely yours. With WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy, you can build a strong, durable, and eye-catching plywood boat that perfectly suits your style and needs. The foundation of your boat is the plywood. Choose marine grade plywood, specifically designed for water-based projects. Consider factors like thickness, ... How to Build Your Very Own Plywood Boat with Marine Epoxy More
Willett Built, based at Shamrock Quay, boasts a rich heritage in the boating industry. The company is home to a team of exceptionally skilled and dedicated craftsman, each an expert in their respective field. Their specialisations span from traditional boatbuilding and restoration to contemporary composite yacht construction and repair. Presently, Willett Built is engaged in ... Willett Built Restores J24 Classic More
Tucked away in the city of Oslo, Norway, Sollerud Båtbyggeri & Slipp has an interesting origin story. Formed in 2011 from the merger of two respected firms, this company has quickly made a name for itself in the boatbuilding world. The business offers a full suite of services, from building and storing boats to launching ... Boatbuilding in Oslo More
Ever seen those pesky cracks or scratches on your fibreglass boat? Most of the time, they’re just cosmetic, but they can really annoy you. Thankfully, epoxy’s a lifesaver! WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy can be used for creating a super strong, waterproof fibreglass repair that’s perfect for fixing those surface dings. In this section, we’ll tackle how ... Repairing Minor Cracks & Holes in a Fibreglass Boat More
When it comes to epoxy adhesives for marine, automotive, and household applications, G/flex 650 Toughened Epoxy and G/flex 655 Thickened Epoxy are two top contenders. Both are renowned for their strength and durability, but each offers unique benefits tailored to specific needs. G/flex 650 Toughened Epoxy G/flex 650 is a versatile, liquid epoxy with a ... G/flex® 650 vs. 655: Choosing the Right Epoxy Adhesive More
After years of anticipation and diligent saving, ‘Ship to Shore’ finally took the plunge and acquired their first sailboat, a vintage Hallberg-Rassy 352 from the year 1984. Their extensive backgrounds in photography, theatre, and cultural management became the springboard for a dramatic shift in their lives. They traded the peaceful vistas of Switzerland for the ... Swiss Couple’s Boat Restoration Rescue? More
The WEST SYSTEM Epoxy A pack is a trustworthy solution for a wide range of repair, maintenance, and construction needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular and efficient uses of this product. Boatbuilding and Marine Repairs One of the main applications of the A pack is in repair work. Its ... What Can You Do With a WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy A Pack? More
Stan Orme, a man who spent most of his career in Telecommunications, always had a special talent. He had a knack for building things, a talent he described as his “first love”. Along with his wife, they didn’t just reside in houses but breathed new life into them. They undertook the renovation of multiple homes ... Can Woodworking Dreams Float? More
The robustness of the epoxy doesn’t solely determine the effectiveness of bonding, fairing, or fabric application. Its ability to adhere well to the applied surface also matters. If you’re bonding the epoxy to a partially cured surface, the strength of the bond depends on the epoxy’s mechanical ability to grip the surface. For the best ... A Guide to Epoxy Bonding More
Given a holiday week with poor weather and changed circumstances I once more took up the tools and materials that I love so much. In an effort to keep at bay the maintenance and DIY tasks on our 110 year old cottage. The summer house in the corner of our garden needed a new roof ... DIY Garden Roof – Quick Epoxy Fix? More
WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy is celebrated for its flexibility. Those with experience value the understanding of the fundamental attributes of WEST SYSTEM fillers, hardeners, and additives, as it allows them to customise and utilise them uniquely for their specific requirements. This manual will guide you on how to mix G/flex® epoxy with other WEST SYSTEM epoxies. ... Guide to Mixing G/flex Epoxy with Other WEST SYSTEM Epoxies More
Growing up, boatbuilding was more than a job for David Kemp’s father; it shaped the family’s entire lifestyle. From a young age, David was immersed in this world. He spent his childhood on the family boats and learned the trade during school holidays. These early experiences laid the foundation for the skills he now uses ... How Are 1930’s Narrowboats Restored? More
‘SeaFinish Creations’ is a company that specialises in all aspects of marine finishes, if you hadn’t already guessed from the name. At the heart of this brand is Jacob. A man whose life took a transformative turn at the age of 15 when he relocated to the south of France with his father. The initial ... What Sets ‘SeaFinish Creations’ Apart in The Marine Industry? More
Our technical staff member, Hamish Cook, has been answering various questions about epoxy. This week, we posed a question to him: ‘What exactly is an exotherm?’ Let me share with you his insightful response… Exotherm refers to the heat produced because of the interaction between a resin and hardener. The chemical reaction between the epoxy ... What is an Exotherm? More
Hanneke Boon is an integral part of James Wharram Designs. Her expertise? Boat design, boat building and sailing. She was born into a family of sailors in the Netherlands. By 14, she was already constructing and sailing her first Polynesian Catamaran. She joined the James Wharram team at 20, where her artistic skills and practical ... How Does Hanneke Boon’s Expertise Shape the World of Wharram Catamarans? More
Since 2006, Maikel has been an influential presence in the guitar-making scene. Training as a luthier for 4 years at the International Luthier School in Antwerp, he then decided to create his own business. His journey began with acoustics and, over time, he expanded his repertoire to include electric guitars. Exploring with various wood varieties ... What is the Process of Becoming a Luthier? More
Don’t panic! A hole in a fibreglass boat is a common issue that many boat owners face. Thankfully, it’s not only easy to fix, but the repair process can also be a great opportunity to learn more about your boat’s construction and maintenance. How do you assess the damage? The first step in any repair ... How Can You Repair a Hole in a Fibreglass Boat? More
Marine repair expert, Andy Miller, conducted an experiment to test a long-standing belief in the boating world: Can polyester-based materials, like gelcoat, bond with epoxy? This question is particularly relevant for users of WEST SYSTEM®, an established marine-grade epoxy. In his two-part YouTube video series, Miller mimicked real-world repair conditions and focused on three key ... Can Gelcoat and Epoxy Bond? More
The journey began with a two-year work experience stint at Topsail Charters located in Maldon. This time served as an introduction to the intricate world of barges, where Sam Hicks was entrusted with the boats sailing and upkeep. “From there on I caught the bug of traditional boats and decided that was what I wanted ... How Did I Become a Skipper Through Boat Restoration? More
Both born in the UK, Julian and Sharon crossed paths in the Australian film and television industry. As special effects and prop makers, they were the unseen hands behind the magic of the silver screen. Sharon recalls, “In the days before Computer Generated Imagery (CGI), what you saw on the silver screen started with physical ... Is Brilliant II Their Real-Life Movie Set? More
Kayaking, a popular water sport, has seen significant advancements in technology over the years. One significant advancement is the use of PRO-SET® Epoxy in kayak construction. This technology leverages Vacuum Infused Fibreglass and Carbon Technology. This approach transforms kayak construction, providing a multitude of advantages compared to conventional methods. These materials demonstrate outstanding physical properties at room ... PRO-SET® Epoxy Kayaks with Vacuum Infused Fibreglass and Carbon Technology More
When you’re knee-deep in a project, the bonding stage is where things start to get exciting. It’s like seeing all the puzzle pieces come together. But to make that happen, you need two key ingredients: a clean and well-prepped surface, and the right kind of glue. Now, there’s this method called ‘two-step bonding’. Why is ... How Can You Make a Joint with Two-Step Epoxy Bonding? More
Epoxy is an ideal material for creating jewellery due to its versatility, durability, and ease of handling. Its ability to be poured into moulds or used as a coating on various surfaces, coupled with its vibrant colours and resistance to wear and tear, makes epoxy a perfect choice for crafting unique and long-lasting jewellery pieces. More
Chris, a man with a deep-rooted passion for artistry, was fortunate to grow up in a family that supported his creative interests. His father, an architect, and skilled at woodwork, instilled in him the value of creating bespoke pieces. “That spirit has stuck with me – why buy something off-the-rack when I can build exactly ... Celtic-Inspired Epoxy Woodwork More
Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, where the untamed coastline greets the sea, the Lochaber Coastal Rowing Club thrives. This tight-knit community’s pivotal focus is rowing, but it extends beyond mere physical exertion. The club is equally fervent about forging connections and celebrating heritage. “Lochaber Coastal Rowing Club was formed to promote and facilitate the sport ... Lochaber Coastal Rowing Club and the St Ayles Skiff Project More
How can getting the dispensing ratios wrong impact your epoxy project? Well, when you’re starting an epoxy project, the first thing you need to do is to get the right amounts of resin and hardener. It’s super important to find the right mix! The balance between the resin and hardener determines how strong and hard ... How Do You Achieve the Perfect Mix with WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy? More
Choosing the right glass cloth is the starting point for any successful boatbuilding or repair project. Make the right choice with our four key selection criteria says technical expert, Hamish Cook. How to Navigate the Wide Range of Glass Cloths? Plain weave, biaxial stitched, twill weave, satin weave. The range of glass cloths available is ... What Glass Cloth Should You Choose for Your Boatbuilding Project? More
Have you ever considered using epoxy resin for a project but been hesitant due to circulating rumours? In the first instalment of our epoxy myths busting series, our in-house technical expert, David Johnson, debunks common misconceptions about this versatile material. Myth 1: Epoxy Doesn’t Stick to Polyester Experienced boatyards and yacht surveyors widely understand that ... 10 Myths About Epoxy: Cured! More
I’ve been involved in sailing since my mid-teens, albeit more sporadically than consistently. Throughout this period, I primarily served as a crew member on various skippers’ boats, gaining a wealth of nautical experience. My most recent nautical adventures were based out of Oban on the west coast. It was during one of these journeys that ... Building ‘Lockdown’ – Working with Swallow Yachts More
Meet Glenn and Debbie, a devoted couple who have been sharing the joys of matrimony for 32 years. Nestled in the heart of Jimboomba, Queensland, they reside on a picturesque 5-acre rural property. Their passion for the sea is evident in their daily hour-long journey to their pride and joy, Speranza, a majestic 43-foot bridge ... Life Aboard Speranza More
Twelve years ago Mat Taylor began a career in teaching Design and Technology, finally putting his degree in Product Design to use. This quickly instilled a fascination for woodworking; he found himself irresistibly drawn to the neglected planes and chisels in the tool cupboard, eager to master the skills they represented and venture into the ... A Journey into the Boat Industry More
If you need strength and adhesion in a hurry, or if you’re worried about mixing epoxy accurately or don’t have the right tools to hand, WEST SYSTEM® Six10® pre-mixed adhesive could be the trade secret you’re looking for. What Makes Six10 a Perfect Choice for Various Applications? Six10 is a two-part, pre-thickened epoxy adhesive, perfect ... Why Choose Pre-Mixed Adhesive for Quick and Quality Results? More
What are epoxy fillers? Epoxy fillers, they’re pretty important. They change the epoxy’s properties to fit what you need. Want more strength or abrasion resistance? Or maybe you need to fill some gaps? Epoxy fillers have you covered. What types of epoxy fillers are there? Whether you’re looking to enhance the strength of your epoxy, ... How To Thicken Epoxy with Fillers? More
When it comes to reinforcing and resisting abrasion, fibreglass cloth or tape is a go-to material. It’s a common sight in the construction and repair of boats, cars, and other structures that require strength and durability. This guide will walk you through the process of applying fibreglass cloth or tape with the help of WEST ... How Can You Use Fibreglass Cloth or Tape to Reinforce and Resist Abrasion? More
Have you got some broken jewellery that’s been on your to-fix list for a while? Or maybe you are waiting to glue a household item back together? Ever found yourself wondering about the best product to use for these kinds of repairs? The WEST SYSTEM G/flex Thickened Epoxy Adhesive is a resilient, all-around, two-component epoxy ... Fixing a ring with G/flex® 655 Thickened Epoxy More
How Can Epoxy Seal Sinks and Countertops? Did you know that your trusted WEST SYSTEM Epoxy can be used for a variety of indoor and outdoor home repairs, including fixing a cracked toilet or addressing plaster issues? You can use epoxy to seal the surfaces of high moisture areas, as well as the edges of ... Can WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy Improve Home Repairs? More
I presently hold the position of director at medical clinics situated across various locations in the Netherlands. The primary motivation behind building “anything” was the realisation that in contemporary times, we often fail to witness tangible outcomes of our efforts. The human mind is a fascinating tool, capable of processing complex monetary figures, numerical data ... A Director’s Boat Building Journey More
Water damage can significantly shorten the lifespan of a wooden boat. So, how can you defend your boat against water penetration and keep it looking smart for longer? How Does Marine Epoxy Help in Waterproofing Surfaces? Coating with marine epoxy is a fantastic strategy for waterproofing surfaces and preventing wood rot. However, there are some ... How Can You Protect Your Wooden Boat from Water Damage? More
There’s something about a well-varnished wood trim on boats that catches the eye, isn’t there? But let’s be honest, the traditional method can feel like it’s taking forever. Waiting two weeks for twelve layers of varnish to dry? That’s an entire summer if you’re in the UK! Can We Speed Up the Varnishing Process? You ... Want Quick, Well-Varnished Wood For Your Boat’s Trim? More
A few years ago, at the age of 28, I found myself residing along the Thames in Buckinghamshire. My journey into the boat industry began, above all, with a growing interest in sailing. Nevertheless, it was wooden boat construction that indeed caught my attention. This enthusiasm led me to enrol at the International Boatbuilding Training College in Lowestoft in ... How Did a Passion for Sailing Lead to a Career in Traditional Wooden Boat Construction? More
Not sure whether epoxy has what it takes to fix your fibreglass boat repairs? “It’s versatile, strong, reliable – and more than a match for polyester resin”, says Hamish Cook, Technical Guru at Epoxycraft. Fibreglass boats – like all boats – get damaged. It’s inevitable. Collisions and groundings cause everything from small nicks to serious ... Why Is Epoxy The Best Choice For Fibreglass Boat Repairs? More
In the realm of DIY and home improvement, the saying “necessity is the mother of invention” rings true. We’ve all found ourselves in situations where we’ve had to improvise with the wrong tool. This usually happens because the right one has mysteriously disappeared. But what if you could repurpose some of the tools already in ... How Can a Razor Blade Be Used in Your Workshop? More
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been absolutely hooked on building and creating things. It started with RC airplanes – I’d spend hours getting my hands dirty, piecing together every tiny part, and then watching my creations take flight. But it wasn’t just about the building; it was the thrill of seeing something I’d made from ... OD Guitars – Essential Tools for Perfect Tone More
I spent over thirty years practising as a dentist and harboured a constant fascination for crafting wooden furniture and home accessories. My skills in woodworking were entirely self-acquired, leading to a certain unpredictability in the quality of my creations. In 2021, I chose early retirement and undertook a year-long designer/maker course at the esteemed Waters ... How Did a Dentist Become a Woodworker? More
I have been working as an electrician, accumulating over 15 years of valuable experience within the construction industry. Until a few years ago, the notion of delving into boating had never crossed my mind. Initially, my plan involved purchasing a van and converting it for road trips across Europe. However, fate had other plans in ... Restoring a Sailboat More
I have nurtured a passion for design and crafting for as far back as I can recall. During my childhood, every yoghurt pot, cardboard box, or straw became a canvas for my imagination. These objects would transform into robots, spaceships, or racing cars! Yet, even in my early years, I recognised a disparity. This was ... Mark Hester, The Design Behind Formworx More
What’s the Issue with Boat Mattresses Getting Mouldy and Damp? Boat owners often face a common problem. Dampness. It seeps into the mattress, causing mould. The culprit? Lack of ventilation. But, what’s the solution? The traditional fix has been simple. Ventilation holes in the plywood bunk bases. But this leads to another issue. The veneer ... How Can I Prevent Plywood from Splitting with Epoxy Resin? More
The frosty mornings and dark evenings are drawing near. There are projects that need finishing, but what do you do when epoxy and cold weather don’t get on too well. It’s that time of year when we are keen to complete projects before the winter freeze sets in. As cold can compromise the strength of ... How to Work With Epoxy in Cold Weather? More
My name is Simen Soltvedt and I’m 48 years old. I reside on the scenic west coast of Norway in Bjørnafjorden. It’s just an hour away from Bergen, the country’s second-largest city. My wonderful wife, Elin, and I are proud parents of two young adults aged 18 and 22. By profession, I delve into the ... How is Simen Soltvedt Crafting the Future with Resin and Wood? More
Belinda Joslin serves as the founder of ‘Women in Boat Building’, a Community Interest Company established to provide support, foster connections, and offer inspiration to women actively involved in boatbuilding. Previously, Belinda held a role as a finisher at Spirit Yachts in Ipswich. It was during this time that she became motivated to connect with ... Women in Boat Building #WIBB More
Are you used to standing in a dust cloud when you mix lightweight filler into your epoxy? There’s a handy technique to avoid that. David Johnson tells all. I have to be honest – no-one ever asks us how to go about mixing a filler into epoxy. In fact, I wondered briefly if it was ... What are the Efficient Techniques for Mixing Lightweight Filler into Epoxy Resin? More
Meet Polly Robinson. From a young age, she developed a strong passion for boats. This was influenced by her sailing enthusiast family, who were also skilled boat builders. Her childhood was filled with thrilling boat adventures, in the scenic south of England and the serene Lake District. The Pram Dinghy: A Family Heirloom One particularly ... Bridging Generations with Boats – The Journey of Polly Robinson More
Why is Cleanliness So Crucial When Applying Epoxy? When you’re preparing a surface for an epoxy application, cleanliness isn’t just important, it’s absolutely crucial. You see, if your surface isn’t clean before you begin, you’re setting yourself up for a tougher job down the line. Why? Because contamination can actually reduce the adhesive power of ... How Does Ensuring a Clean Surface Lead To a Strong Epoxy Bond? More
On a farm, tucked away in the Cotswolds, UK, you wouldn’t think to find a boatbuilder. But that’s where you’ll find Dan Lee, working away on his latest project. Miss Isle. What Services Does Dan Lee BoatBuilding Offer? A wooden boat builder, Dan offers services. These include boat building, restoration, joinery, CAD design, 3D scanning ... Building Miss Isle – The Gentleman’s Racer More
Sailing Rum Punch comprises of Ellie and Ben. They form a dynamic duo with a unified vision. Their goal is to transform a 1972 ‘Contest 38’ sailing boat into their idyllic abode. Equipped with their impressive vessel, they embark on an exciting journey to navigate the vast expanses of the oceans. Background knowledge: Ben’s upbringing ... Sailing Rum Punch More
Tell us a bit about your background and what motivated/inspired you to boatbuilding? My business primarily focuses on agriculture, food, and related machinery sectors. I serve as an importer and distributor in Türkiye, representing seven different companies. I source high-quality seeds and machinery from reputable suppliers in the Netherlands, UK, Belgium, France, Germany, Finland, and ... Ocracoke 20-B More
Fergal Butler is a man with a plan. After giving up work – as a daffodil picker – he needed a hobby which he could manage in his back garden while also caring full time for his family. He wanted to build a motor cruiser with room for two wheelchairs – to accommodate his wife ... How Did Fergal Butler’s Boat Survive 8 Years Underwater? More
Hailing from France, the remarkable group known as Les Bátar is passionately working towards a ground-breaking endeavour: constructing the world’s fastest longship. Their ambitious goal? To embark on an extraordinary voyage across the seas, setting sail towards New York. Founded in 2011 as a non-profit organisation, they have been dedicated to the reconstruction of Viking ... Les Bátar – Viking Boat More
For many people, surfing represents more than a sport. It is a way of life and a way to connect with nature and the ocean. Fabio, a Handmade Surfboard Designer and Shaper, was born in Rome on May 1, 1962. He has turned this passion into a lifestyle that led him from the Italian coast ... Fabio Giacomini – Handmade Surfboard Designer More
Tell us a bit about your background and what motivated or inspired you to enter the boat industry? When I was 13 years old, I started building my very first wooden boat using Geoffrey Prout’s flatty design. It was an experience that ignited a deep passion for boats within me, later inspiring me to pursue ... Rising from Ashes – The Haven 12.5 Project More
Circles Alternative Education is a non-profit community interest company. Its primary goal is to engage young people in learning through practical skills development. They focus on providing opportunities to those who are not in full-time education. Additionally, they specifically target individuals with special educational needs, particularly those who struggle with literacy skills. Unlike traditional schools ... Sailing Towards Learning: Circles Alternative Education’s Boat Project Empowers Youth with Community-Based Education More
Ever wondered what goes into making a sport boat using Epoxy Resin? Here’s how WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy inventors Jan and Meade Gougeon and their team of Technical Experts did it. All in all, it took about 700 hours of work but, we’re guessing you don’t have that kind of time to spare. Instead, take the ... From Plank of Wood to i550 Sport Boat in 3 Minutes Using Epoxy Resin More
Learn the basic techniques! Whether you plan on bonding, laminating, filleting, fairing, or applying fabrics, the success of the application depends not only on the strength of the epoxy, but also on how well the epoxy adheres to the surface to which it is being applied. Why is Surface Preparation Important? “Surface preparation is one ... Basic Techniques of Surface Prep for Repairs on Wooden Boats? More
WEST SYSTEM® G/flex® 655 is a toughened epoxy that makes permanent, waterproof, structural bonds. It absorbs the stresses of expansion, contractions, shock and vibration on joins, and it now comes in an easy-to-use ready filled twin syringe for working with small quantities. Ease of Use: The handy twin syringe dispenses G/flex 655 resin and hardener ... WEST SYSTEM G/flex 655 25ml twin syringe, perfect for small quantity applications More
In 2021, our technical guru Hamish Cook set out on an incredible project. Using a variety of tools, Entropy Resins® products, and Lego, Hamish made a wall hanging that he and his family will adore for years to come. In this walkthrough guide, Hamish details all the equipment he used, alongside step-by-step instructions on how ... How To Make a Decorative Wall Hanging with LEGO and Epoxy More
Are you working on some DIY projects and looking for ideas to make things go more smoothly? Why Use Cable Ties for Stitching? When it comes to stitch-and-glue boat construction, the traditional method involves using copper for stitching. But Hanneke Boon from James Wharram Designs suggests a different approach: cable ties. “They’re cheap, easy to ... How Can Epoxy Improve Your DIY Projects? More
How can you safely dispose of epoxy? Getting rid of PRO-SET® and WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy is straightforward if you follow these simple guidelines (and if you waste as little as possible in the first place…) How can you minimise epoxy waste? Not having to dispose of epoxy is easier than having to dispose of epoxy – ... How Can You Safely Dispose Of Epoxy? More