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
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
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
Noticed Blisters in Your Gelcoat? What’s Next? You’ve just pulled your boat out of the water. There, you see it – blisters in your gelcoat. Ignoring them might seem like the easy way out, but it’s not. Neglect could lead to bigger problems like a complete hull overhaul, gelcoat removal, or even a full barrier ... Repairing Gelcoat Blisters on a Fibreglass Boat Using Six10® Epoxy? 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
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
If you need to know how to mend a puncture in fibreglass, check this out. This boat owner’s 17ft fibreglass boat sustained a major hit in a storm which caused a puncture hole in the hull. John used the WEST SYSTEM® Mini Pack after it was recommended to him, to mend the hole himself – ... How to fix collision damage in fibreglass (boat hull repair) More
Is one or more of your lifeline stanchions coming away from its base? It’s a common problem but it’s vital that it’s fixed quickly. A repair with thickened WEST SYSTEM® epoxy and fibreglass will do an excellent job, as our technical expert Hamish explains. There’s a lot of stress placed on the humble stanchion. Often ... We asked Hamish… how do you repair a stanchion on a fibreglass boat? More
Technical expert David Johnson gave this informative talk on his best methods for repairing fibreglass at METS back in November. This special Pecha Kucha presentation features 20 slides, each with 20 seconds per slide, won’t take you more than 7 minutes but could save you valuable time when you come to your next repair job. More
Trying to fibreglass the bottom of a hull by yourself can be tricky but you can put your struggles to one side once you read this fantastic resource on how to do it. Following a technique similar to hanging wallpaper, this article from experienced hand Tom Pawlak runs you through a comprehensive nine-point process for ... Techniques for fibreglassing overhead More
What do you do when you find blisters in the gelcoat of your boat? Leave them and hope they may disappear? If you do that, you could be creating a bigger fibreglass boat repair job for yourself in the future. Blisters in your fibreglass boat don’t have to be the end of the world but ... Fibreglass boat repair: six steps to fixing gelcoat blisters with Six10 epoxy More
We found this fantastic resource from Mark Ryan on how to repair a mast truss, complete with helpful photos to guide you through the process. It needn’t be a complicated task – it just takes some patience and the experience of someone who’s been there before. Mark recommends using WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin® with ... How to repair the mast truss on your fibreglass boat More
We recently discovered an article from boat designer John Welsford about his tried-and-tested method for fibreglassing boat hulls. To avoid “spectacular failures”, John advocates using WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin® with WEST SYSTEM hardeners for consistently good results. Read John’s proven method here. Image credit: www.wooden-boat-building.nka888.com More
When Miguel Mclawrence decides to undertake a project, he means business. So when he decided to conduct a major fibreglass boat repair he decided to rely on WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. Miguel chose to rebuild his laser dinghy with a honeycomb core and opted to use epoxy throughout the restoration to ensure a long lasting finish. ... Fibreglass boat repair – restoring a honeycomb core More
The most important thing to do when you encounter a hole in your fibreglass boat is to assess the damage thoroughly. If the damage to the skin is larger than 10mm it’s best practice to use a backing to support the wet fabric patch until the epoxy cures. Creating support at the back of a ... Fibreglass boat repair – letter box repair More
Delamination is a common deck and hull construction problem which tends to get worse if left unattended. Eventually, it can reach a point where the overall structural integrity of the hull and deck may be compromised so it’s really important to know how to perform a high quality with this fibreglass boat repair. Delamination is ... Fibreglass boat repair – a solid solution to delamination More
Fibreglass boats are known for their low maintenance and durability. However, with structural damage to the stringers a common issue, it’s essential to know how to make a replacement that will last. Although fibreglass boats tend to require less maintenance than their wooden counterparts, they’re not without problems. They suffer from many of the same ... TRADE SECRET: Fibreglass boat repair – replacing stringers More
Own a fibreglass boat for any length of time and it’s likely you’ll end up with a few dings or scratches in the surface, or if you’re particularly unlucky even some larger structural damage. Fibreglass boat repairs can seem like a daunting process but, with the help of Boatwork’s Andy Miller’s step by step video, you ... Fibreglass boat repairs with epoxy More
It’s pretty fundamental; if boats are not to sink their seacocks can’t leak. It’s also one of the reasons why any seacock repair must be done properly and with care. After discovering a loose seacock in his 1981 Nor’sea 27, boat repair aficionado Daniel set to work fitting a new, sturdier replacement using fibreglass and ... Fibreglass boat repair: how to install a raw water seacock More
After discovering a worrying crack in the hull of his boat, sailing enthusiast Mike describes how he set about repairing the damage using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy (http://www.zerotocruising.com/cracking-up). A self-confessed ‘newbie’ when it comes to boat repair, Mike takes readers through the simple steps he took to make his fibreglass boat repair. His blog, ‘Zero to Cruising’, ... Fibreglass boat repair – advice from a repair ‘newbie’ More
When faced with a laminate fibreglass boat repair, there are several methods which could prove effective in achieving a decent repair. But nothing gets you quite as close to the original material as vacuum bagging. Although interpreted as a more advanced method, even the least experienced epoxy DIYer can perform a repair using vacuum bagging, ... TRADE SECRET: Fibreglass boat repair: repairing laminates using vacuum bagging More
Once you’ve assessed the damage to your fibreglass boat and carefully prepared your surfaces, it’s time to laminate glass fabric with WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy, as David Johnson explains. In an earlier blog, Preparing for a fibreglass boat repair, we looked at the importance of working out the extent and type of damage you’re facing – ... Repairing your fibreglass boat with epoxy More
In this blog on fixing a crack or hole in your fibreglass boat, David Johnson explains why – before getting to work – you need to carefully assess the damage and plan exactly what’s required. Abraham Lincoln once said that if you gave him six hours to cut down a tree, he’d spend the first four ... Preparing for a fibreglass boat repair More
Fibreglass boat repair, the ultimate challenge for WEST SYSTEM epoxy, can it bond them closer together? This Rhode Island couple’s new GRP boat-building project is the ultimate challenge for any relationship. Follow them as they talk through all the trials and tribulations of fixing up a 1967 Pearson Ariel fibreglass boat. From avoiding boat-pox and removing a rudder to scraping ... Fibreglass boat repair – from scraping paint to naming More
If you need to lay up a fibreglass canoe hole, the WEST SYSTEM® Vacuum Bag demonstration in this short two-minute video will offer you a viable solution. Our technical advisers briefly run through the materials you will need, and how to go about this fibreglass boat repair. You’ll be paddling your canoe again in no time! ... Fibreglass boat repair – fixing a hole in your canoe 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
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
WEST SYSTEM EPOXY WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy is a superior, two-component epoxy, lauded for its versatility across an extensive array of coating and adhesive applications. Its exceptional resistance to moisture and robust strength, render it particularly suitable for marine applications. The product line includes the WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin, Hardeners, Fillers, Additives, Reinforcing Materials, Metering ... WEST SYSTEM 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
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
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
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
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
Understanding Epoxy Resin Requirements This is a question the team at WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy get asked a lot. According to technical expert David Johnson, it’s important to have a good idea of how much epoxy resin your project is going to need before you start. You want to be sure you have enough to hand ... How Much Epoxy Resin Do I Need? 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
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
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
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
If you’re a regular follower of epoxycraft, you’ll know we like to feature projects on boat building and boat repair using WEST SYSTEM epoxy. We have thoroughly enjoyed hearing about many WEST SYSTEM projects this year, so we thought we’d share some fascinating ones with you! A World War 2 Restoration Project A boat steeped ... Boat Building 2022 Projects – Top Picks More
Wessex Resins will be running daily product demonstrations over the course of Southampton International Boat Show (12:00 & 14:30 each day at stand J401, 16-25 September 2022). The mini-masterclasses will share the team’s specialist knowledge in getting the best out of the WEST SYSTEM range, how to use it, and what to use it for. ... Mini-classes in using WEST SYSTEM epoxy at this year’s SIBS 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
1 boat. 60 days. 3,800 miles. Four friends are aiming to do something extraordinary. To be the first crew to row non-stop from mainland Europe to mainland South America in a pure class boat. The challenge The normal Atlantic challenge starts in the Canary Islands and finishes in the Caribbean. Instead, Jim, Justin, Rob and ... An Extraordinary Challenge – The M2M Atlantic Four More
As England, Scotland and Wales enter another lockdown, you may have started work on those home projects. Whether it’s boat maintenance and repairs, a restoration or a brand new build, you’re going to need to stock up on supplies. To help you out, we’ve created a list of Chandleries that have remained open, either in-store ... UK Chandleries Open – January 2021 More
Wingspread, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed residence near Racine, Wisconsin, was in desperate need of stabilisation, writes Brian Knight. The roof and side walls were showing movement and cracks caused by extreme snow loads and previous remodelling. Because this house is on the USA’s National Register of Historic Buildings (NRHB), the owners and architects were restricted ... The Structural Repair of Wingspread More
We’re all eagerly anticipating the reopening of retail outlets. In the meantime, if you’re looking to stock up on your favourite epoxy brands, here are some WEST SYSTEM®, PRO-SET® and Entropy Resins® epoxy stockists who we know are currently open. Don’t forget that we offer support either by voice or mail. Our technical team is ... Chandleries currently open (June 2020) More
Brad Rochfort is a garage shaper who takes the ultimate care with his boards. “People must be happy if they have to wait for a board.” The fact that people are willing to wait for months attests to the quality of his product. Created lovingly in Newquay, Cornwall using the finest bio-based Entropy Resins® with ... How Does Rochfort Customs Create Boards Using Entropy Resins®? More
Wessex Resins is delighted to announce it has improved and updated the WEST SYSTEM® 105-K Glass Fibre Boat Repair Kit. The kit comprises everything needed to fix minor cracks, holes and punctures as well as refit and replace hardware on a boat. The WEST SYSTEM 105-K Glass Fibre Boat Repair Kit contains: · 250g WEST ... WEST SYSTEM 105-K Glass Fibre Boat Repair Kit updated More
Completing the hull and making a spinnaker chute Keen to build himself a small sailing dinghy, retired land surveyor Steve Goodchild turned his spare room into a workshop and began to assemble a 16ft Stornoway design using the strip plank method. The idea was that ‘Barnacle’ would be capable of dinghy ‘cruising’, a popular pastime ... Building a Stornoway 16 – Part 3 More
Epoxy’s Cure Stages What is the difference between working time, pot life and cure time? All three are slightly different. Working time, also called open time, is the amount of time epoxy remains liquid between when you mix the resin and hardener and when it begins to gel. During working time, the epoxy remains workable ... Epoxy basics More
Making the cedar strips and mast As mentioned in part one of this series, to build the ideal boat with which to join the Dinghy Cruising Association, retired land surveyor Steve Goodchild bought the plans from designer Paul Fisher and assembled the ‘strongback’ jig on which ‘Barnacle’s’ hull would be laid up. He then attended ... Building a Stornoway 16 – Part 2 More
Learn the basic concepts of using and handling WEST SYSTEM® epoxy in this unique, hands-on, one day workshop. Friday 31st January 2020, ECF Composites, Hexham, NE46 4DQ Gain experience in using epoxy while experimenting with the entire range of fillers for bonding, gap filling, filleting and fairing while you build a toolbox. Use epoxy and ... WEST SYSTEM workshop – Hexham, Newcastle-upon-Tyne (31 Jan 2020) More
If you’re looking for presents for sailors, take inspiration from George Isted’s recent win (pictured with Hamish Cook). He’s giving some of this mega-bundle of epoxy goodies as gifts; sharing the epoxy magic as Christmas presents for sailors in his life. Epoxy presents for sailors include: Glass Fibre Boat Repair kits (WEST SYSTEM 105-K Glass ... Epoxy presents for sailors More
The beauty of epoxy, says Jake Kavanagh, is that it makes a tough, non-shrinking connection between various angles of wood, ideal when you want to make a plug for a custom mould. Which is why he wrote this article for us on how to make a oil drip tray. Not that we don’t trust the brand-new ... Moulding an oil tray More
Looking for a practical way to increase your epoxy skills and knowledge? Book onto our one-day epoxy workshop, 7th November 2019. Here at Wessex Resins and Adhesives, we’re hosting a special event for those wanting to gain expert knowledge and hands-on experience of using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy to construct, repair and maintain their own boats, or ... Epoxy Workshop, 7 Nov 2019 More
According to Luke Young, his boards are built with science and timing and that’s what makes them perfect for world-class surfers across the globe. Epoxycraft finds out which epoxy for surfboards he’s using. Luke Young has made surfboards for the world-class elite and also for beginners, intermediaries and more. He’s been building bespoke surfboards for ... Surfing The World More
Competing against the cream of engineering students, the University of Manchester is taking a bespoke single-seater to race at Silverstone. They’re using the best epoxy for automobiles. Formula Student is the world’s largest student engineering design competition with entries from around the world, including USA, Australia, India, Canada and the Far East, as well as ... Driven to win More
G/5 five-minute epoxy – great for race repairs, spot welding and making a detachable fibreglass locker (see below). It’s an adhesive that cures in just five minutes at room temperature. What is it? G/5 is a two-part epoxy adhesive that has been formulated to cure in just five minutes at room temperature. Used for: Any ... Additive of the Month – February 2019 More
Part 4: Putting on the skin and sheathing A gajeta is a traditional design of small open fishing boat but as they are raced competitively, an enterprising naval architect decided to make one using modern epoxy techniques. In this instalment, the computer-generated design is taking shape on its temporary jig and the base layer of ... Building an 18th century gajeta – Part 4 More
Building an International14 is no mean feat but naming it is even harder, according to the team building it and trying to do just that. Liam Stacpoole and Wayne Barnicoat refuse to give any clues as to what the potential name for their new PRO-SET® Epoxy produced INT14 will be. They suspect it might cause ... It’s all in the name More
What Are the Various Uses and Applications of Epoxy? Want to find out more about epoxy? Look no further, we’ve got you covered. Welcome to your one-stop source for all things epoxy. This versatile substance is more than meets the eye. In its liquid form, it acts as a protective layer, a laminator, and an ... What is Epoxy? More
Part 3: Base layer planking In a boatyard in Croatia, an 8-metre Croatian Gajeta is being built with a merger of new materials (epoxy) and traditional skills. At this stage of the project, it is ready to receive its first set of planks. To avoid using nails or screws in the build, everything will be ... Building an 18th century gajeta – Part 3 More
Part 2: Applying the skin In a remarkable project that combines traditional boatbuilding skills with modern techniques, a Croatian Gajetareceives its primary wooden framework, cut by computer and bonded with WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. With the plywood formers for the 7m (21ft) fishing boat assembled at the Betina Shipyard in Croatia (see part 1) the task of ... Building an 18th century gajeta – Part 2 More
Based in West Yorkshire, Winder Boats builds high performance racing dinghies and foils using PRO-SET epoxy. The key to success was finding the right product and – literally – sticking with it. Anyone who has sailed a Merlin Rocket or Fireball dinghy knows the exhilaration they give from close racing in a stiff breeze and ... Two products for top performance More
WEST SYSTEM® 402 MILLED GLASS FIBRE BLEND (Type: Blended adhesive filler. Product No: 402) 402 is a unique blend of powder and strands. What is it? WEST SYSTEM 402 Milled Glass Fibre Blend is a mix of individual strands of chopped glass evenly dispersed in a powder base made up of other fillers. This combination creates ... Additive of the Month – September 2018 More
Boatbuilder Paul Gomm, a regular user of WEST SYSTEM epoxy, has been doing some great repair work on 2.4m Class Stradivari Mk IV. We were lucky enough to see the repair as it progressed. The boat has a fibreglass keel, which had suffered a form of osmotic damage through a combination of water and anti-freeze. ... Getting a 2.4m Stradivari Mk IV back racing More
We asked David Johnson, Sales Director at West System International, technical expert and sometime yachtsman (that last one is his own description!), what WEST SYSTEM® products he would consider to be dinghy park essentials. That is those products that you should have with you in the dinghy park this summer, whether you’re away for a weekend ... Dinghy Park essentials More
PART 1: STRIPPING AND PREPARATION If your teak deck is looking a bit thin and tired, or is lifting away from its substrate, or maybe if you just want a new design, now might be the time to start planning its replacement. A key ally in the process will be WEST SYSTEM® and PRO-SET® products. ... The secrets to renewing teak deck More
WEST SYSTEM product Technical Advisor Hamish Cook guides us through the range of additives available to enhance your epoxy project. Describing how to choose and use each one, Hamish provides the technical groups’ special hints and tips for a first-class result. “Fillers are used to thicken the basic resin/hardener mixture for specific applications,” Hamish says. ... Additive of the month More
When former aviation engineer James Newman began experimenting with PRO-SET epoxy for creating custom carbon-fibre components, he didn’t realise it would lead to a whole new career path. The PRO-SET epoxy range has been developed to create incredibly lightweight but strong component parts, especially by infusion. This is why you will find PRO-SET epoxy used ... From concorde to formula 1 – J-TEC Composites on the challenges of making performance parts in carbon More
Experiment with cedar strip canoe building with this 1:12 scale model from Bear Mountain Boats The cedar strip method of boat building allows for the creation of some truly beautiful canoes and kayaks. This comes not just from the natural colours of the epoxy-coated wood, but also from the way the thin planks can be ... Build small whilst thinking big More
Experienced in making furniture as a hobby, retired fashion photographer David Falcon Grey decided his next project would be a hand built, retro-styled motorboat. Although far from being finished, the result is stunning. Back in the late 30s and again in 50s and 60s, several American and Italian boatyards began to produce some head-turning launches ... Building a modern classic launch More
Many of the boatbuilders featured in epoxycraft talk about using peel ply in their builds. But what is it and why is it so great? We ask our resident expert Hamish Cook to explain what it is, the benefits it offers and how best to use it. Peel ply is often talked about by boat ... We asked Hamish: tell us about using peel ply? More
The Shipyard and Marina in Betina, Croatia has been building boats for a staggering 270 years. It is one of the last bastions of traditional wooden shipbuilding on the Croatian Adriatic coast – but they’re still keen to move with the times. Here, Technical Director Joško Radić tells us about his team’s modern take on ... An historic fishing boat for the 21st century More
Beach life-saving equipment can be outdated, expensive to run and time-consuming to set up in an emergency. So when Loughborough University graduate Ross Kemp realised this, he created the Asap water craft: an easy-to-use, power-assisted watercraft for beach lifeguards. Here he tells us about the project, its success and why epoxy resin has played an ... The Asap watercraft More
What does Epoxycraft’s Richard Ross do when he isn’t out on the road? He flies remote-controlled planes – and he repairs them with epoxy, too. In this article, he talks us through his latest repair to a Weston Cougar 2000. My wife likes to poke fun at my love of flying radio-controlled planes by calling ... Repairing a radio-controlled plane with epoxy More
The cutting-edge Arrow 1360 is a stunning 13.6m sailing cat that’s being built for the youth of Switzerland, by the youth of Switzerland. Damian Ruppen of Ocean Youth Sailing tells us more about this unique initiative to sail the world from the shores of Switzerland’s Lake Constance. “It all started about 10 years ago. I, ... Building boats and dreams on the shores of Lake Constance More
Can You Fix a Broken Roof Box? Technical expert Hamish Cook is always ready to answer your questions about epoxy. This month, we received a question about how to repair a broken roof box. Here, Hamish shares his expertise to help you fix and save money. What Causes a Roof Box to Break? We recently ... What are the Seven Easy Steps to Fixing a Roof Box? More
There could be all sorts of reasons why your buoyancy tank needs mending. Maybe you’ve had an accident when transporting your boat? Perhaps the weather hasn’t been kind to it. Or maybe just the passing of time has taken its toll. Whatever underpins the problem, here we explain how to repair your buoyancy tank in ... Repairing a buoyancy tank with WEST SYSTEM epoxy More
Behind the doors of a modest-looking workshop in Brightlingsea, Essex, you’ll find exquisite composite parts being crafted with expert precision. Graham Eeles, of Eeles Boatbuilders, is taking the boating world by storm with his cutting-edge composite foils, masts and other designs. We spoke to him to find out how a trade became a passion – ... All about: Eeles Boatbuilders More
When Daniel Craig cruised the Spirit 54 along Venice’s Grand Canal in the 2006 James Bond movie Casino Royale, it was the first time a sailing boat had entered those waters for 300 years. We spoke to the Spirit Yachts team about this breathtaking wooden beauty and discovered how WEST SYSTEM® epoxy resin had more ... Spirit 54: a Bond girl with a difference More
By the time you notice blisters on the bottom of your hull, the process of osmosis is usually in an advanced stage, meaning you may be facing a large repair job. But fear not: by using the right products and techniques, you’ll save yourself time and hassle. Here, technical expert Richard Ross tells us about ... Osmosis treatment: how repairing and barrier coating with WEST SYSTEM epoxy will return your hull to almost new More
When Turkish boat builder Erbil Arkin wanted a superyacht that blended speed with a stunning aesthetic, he soon realised a J Class wasn’t enough. Here, project manager Önder Kahraman of Arkin Pruva Yachts explains how traditional wood craftsmanship combines with WEST SYSTEM® epoxy to create Tempus Fugit: a yacht that’s in a class of her ... Tempus Fugit: the super-fast superyacht More
Planning on using a moulding tool to make an epoxy composite part? You’ll want to ensure the part releases cleanly from the moulding tool. Plus, of course, the finish on your moulded part must be flawless. Our resident technical expert David Johnson walks you through the process. The simple way to achieve both of these ... How to apply release agent to an epoxy moulding tool More
Fairing a hull may seem like an overwhelming task but there are ways that you can make the process a lot easier, whilst also achieving a great smooth finish. Before using fairing boards for final fairing, why not try working with a grinder? You will need to be careful handling the device in order to control ... Our top 5 tips for fairing a hull More
WEST SYSTEM G/flex® speciality epoxy is a sensible investment if your aluminium boat is in a little need of TLC. The exceptionally strong holding qualities are designed to provide unbeatable grip to plastics, glass, masonry, fibreglass, wood and metals, such as aluminium. The bonds that it creates are strong enough to endure shocks, knocks, expansion ... 7 easy steps to restoring a leaky aluminium boat using epoxy More
What are the best practices for thinning epoxy resin and what factors should you consider before starting the process? Adding a solvent to WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy reduces its viscosity, making it easier to apply. This also allows it to penetrate deeper into porous surfaces like partially rotten wood and saturate faster into fibreglass fabric. For ... Essential Guide to Thinning Epoxy More
If you notice that plywood joints are beginning to deteriorate, it’s time to take some action. These three steps make for a simple and easy wooden boat repair that will help you avoid ending up with a leaky boat, which is the last thing you want! Due to its lightweight yet strong qualities, plywood is ... Three easy steps to rebuilding a plywood joint More
There are several methods for repairing laminates on your fibreglass boat but the most effective way is vacuum bagging. This will give you the nearest result to the original. Whilst it’s considered an advanced technique, with the right process, anyone can perform a decent repair job using vacuum bagging – especially when you have us ... How to repair laminates using vacuum bagging More
We recently came across this fantastic blog post from Paul Calder, as he completes the final stages of the fibreglass work for the cockpit sole of his current boating project. See the photos following his progress and achieve a smoother and more efficient fairing process with Paul’s tried and trusted methods. Read the article in ... Tips for fairing the cockpit sole of your boat More
If you need strength and adhesion in a hurry, or if you’re concerned about mixing epoxy accurately or don’t have the right tools for the job, WEST SYSTEM® Six10® Thickened Epoxy Adhesive could be the answer you’re looking for as it’s a pre-thickened epoxy adhesive. WEST SYSTEM Six10 is a two-part, pre-thickened epoxy adhesive, ideal for ... Top reasons why using Six10 epoxy can help you work faster and better More
Work doesn’t necessarily slow down after retirement, as engineer Martin Ellison proved when he left his teaching post at the age of 59 and set about building his first boat. What started as some prompting from his wife to find a meaningful project evolved into the idea of building a 40ft catamaran. Martin tells epoxycraft ... Constructing a 40ft catamaran with WEST SYSTEM epoxy More
Bear Mountain Boats is a distinguished name in Canadian canoe-manufacture. In this profile of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy suppliers, co-owner Joan Barrett tells us how a little cedar canoe sparked a business venture that changed canoe building in Canada forever. Bear Mountain Boats came to life in the early 1970s, when my partner Ted Moores, searching ... All about: Bear Mountain Boats More
In the early 20th century, there were more than 60 watermills on the river Drava in Croatia. Destroyed in World War II, none were rebuilt – that is, until now. We find out what role epoxy has to play in bringing this impressive craft back to life. “It should be an awesome place to take ... Renewing a tradition: building a watermill with epoxy More
We wanted to share the passionate story of father-son team Dave and Scott Wrzesinski and their Marine Services Unlimited boatbuilding shop. From their small shop in Lake Houghton, Michigan, USA, Dave and Scott rebuild classic boats, both wooden and fibreglass, including a 1957 Chris Craft 21ft Continental – one of only six ever produced. They ... In love with their craft: how epoxy helps this classic boat builder More
Steve Bennett started building rockets when he was just 12 years old. Today he’s the CEO of Starchaser Industries, which designs, builds and launches the UK’s biggest rockets – and WEST SYSTEM® epoxy plays a critical role. The first rockets that Steve Bennett built were probably no more than 20cm tall. “I had mixed results; ... Epoxy: helping the UK reach for the stars More
West System International Technical guru David Johnson explains how to fix a rudder that’s taking in water. If there’s a top ten list of questions from boat owners who want to carry out their own repairs, “how do I fix the rudder?” is almost certainly up there. Especially if the boat is 20 years old ... How to use epoxy to fix the rudder of a sailing yacht More
With sources of epoxy knowledge based far and wide, epoxycraft profiles some of the most influential and long-standing. Sarah Sharp, owner and manager of Sharp and Enright in Dover, tells epoxycraft all about her family’s historic chandlery and general merchants. My great, great grandfather took over the business as a sail makers in 1860. But ... All about: Sharp and Enright More
Robert, of boating advice blog www.lifeonthehook.com, likes to think he’s pretty handy around the boat. But there’s nothing more he dreads than caulking. In fact, Robert hates using caulk so much, he decided to abandon it altogether. When he decided to undertake the task of replacing two hatches on his fibreglass boat, he began to ... Finding an alternative to caulk More
Until very recently, the Wooden Boat Centre in Kotka, Finland showcased the painstaking restoration of Blue Marlin – a classic 1930s Twelve Metre Class yacht. WEST SYSTEM epoxy has played a crucial role in giving her a brand new lease of life. “When we first saw Blue Marlin, she had barely undergone any repair work ... Blue Marlin: where tradition meets “this new, glued thinking” More
Priming with epoxy resin Canadian boat builder Jason Eke takes viewers through the stages of applying fibreglass cloth to a canoe using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. In video 1 of this two video series, Jason applies the initial epoxy layer and discusses how to make the application process as problem-free as possible using the right tools and ... Cloth up your canoe More
Paddleboards, which help you almost walk on water, are all the rage right now. This blogger decides to undertake the task of building two hollow wood Kaholo 12’6” stand-up paddleboards, keeping a step-by-step photo diary of his project. The Kaholo’s are made from Okoume marine plywood, stitched-and-glued together and covered in fibreglass and epoxy, with ... Stand up for epoxy More
Veneveistämö J.Palviainen is a Finnish boatbuilding company based in Kärkölä, Finland. Their boatyard undertakes all kinds of renovation and maintenance including: electrical work, interior design, shaft mounting and coating fibreglass boats. From canoes to sailing boats, the boatyard relies on WEST SYSTEM® epoxy to keep their boats and their business afloat. In the first of ... ‘Pirtuvene’ the traditional smuggler boat: Photo report More
The strength, resilience and flexibility of epoxy resin mean it’s perfect for everything from crossbows to cracked hosepipes, says Hamish Cook, Technical Advisor at West System International. For over fifty years our heritage has been in boat building, using epoxy resin to transform the way that everything from wooden canoes to fibreglass yachts are built ... Why boats are only the beginning for epoxy resin More
In 1990, the Jubilee Sailing Trust unveiled ambitious plans to build Tenacious, the world’s largest wooden tall ship, with a view of making it fully accessible to people with physical disabilities. The Trust invited John Birkett the position of construction manager as part of the team to oversee the ship’s construction, which took place between ... Tenacious by name, tenacious by nature – building with epoxy More
Nobody wants a leaky boat. So when plywood joints start to deteriorate it’s time to start a wooden boat repair that will make sure your boat stays high and dry. Modern boat builders are frequently looking to produce designs that are lightweight, fast and strong. It’s why many of them turn to plywood. But it’s ... TRADE SECRET: Wooden boat repair – rebuilding a plywood joint More
Specialist epoxies and innovative techniques have enabled boat builders to construct boats which are lighter and tougher than ever before. David Johnson looks at the evolution of infusion technology which does so much to reduce the compromises of boatbuilding. Large boat/small boat? Cruiser/racer? Sail boat/motor boat? Aluminium/fibreglass? (Or wood? Or composite?) No matter what kind ... Strong and light: the evolution of the epoxy infusion revolution More
Danish shipwright Jørgen Jensen prides himself on building boats that push boundaries and when he was commissioned to build the innovative Pi Boat entirely from carbon fibre, he knew PRO-SET® infusion epoxy had a central part to play. As an increasing number of tourists in the Danish capital Copenhagen will tell you, Pi Boat is ... Creating the unconventional with epoxy resin infusion More
Friday 17th April 2015 Are you looking for a practical way to increase your skills and knowledge of using epoxy? If so, West System International is hosting a special event for boat owners wanting to gain expert knowledge and hands-on experience of using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy to construct, repair and maintain their own boats. The ... WEST SYSTEM EPOXY WORKSHOP The essential hands-on course for any boat owner More
Cutting epoxy cloth can be a messy task. But with Classic Boat’s simple tips, you can’t go far wrong. This short article shows that, when it comes to bonding fibreglass cloth with epoxy, it is possible to remove excess epoxy from the fabric without unravelling the cloth and littering your surface with epoxy threads. With ... How to cut epoxy cloth More
Igor Bzik spent nearly four years building DRACO, a wooden Dragon daysailer, having previously never built anything bigger than a guitar. As he tried to achieve perfection, the project took over his life – and epoxy products became central to realising his vision. Igor Bzik is no ordinary boatbuilder. For one thing, he lives 300km ... “This dragon boat is my obsession – I wanted the best epoxy.” More
How to thin your epoxy and what to consider before you do Reducing the viscosity of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy by adding a solvent, can be tempting. It becomes easier to roll out; it penetrates more deeply into porous surfaces such as partially rotten wood; and it saturates faster into materials like fibreglass fabric. But – ... TRADE SECRET: Thinning epoxy: Best practice guidance for reducing the viscosity of WEST SYSTEM epoxy More
Powerboat driver Bob McCarthy explains why epoxy is now his only choice – whether he’s racing his Formula 3 Bernico in Offshore circuit Racing or breaking water-speed records. People often ask me what the experience of racing powerboats is like. I’ve been doing it for 25 years and I’m still not sure I really know ... Stronger, lighter, faster – using epoxy for powerboats. More
Known for his superior knowledge and technique with epoxy, carbon and fibreglass, Russell Brown explains why he’s sticking to WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy in his latest blog post found on ‘Ports Townsend Watercraft Blog’. Russell has over 40 years of experience with boat building and repairs. He has sampled many different brands of epoxy, but insists ... We ‘stick’ with epoxy More
The creators of the Ocean Explorer C-60 catamaran value quality above all else – and PRO-SET® epoxy products play a central part in their vision. Peter Granholm was visiting a shipping interiors company in his native Finland recently when a poster caught his eye. “It was a quote from Benjamin Franklin,” he says. “’The bitterness ... “If you want top quality, epoxy is a no-brainer.” More
WEST SYSTEM G/flex® speciality epoxy is an exceptionally strong epoxy, designed to provide unbeatable grip to plastics, glass, masonry, fibreglass, wood and metals – including aluminium. So if your aluminium boat is in need of a little TLC, G/flex is a very wise investment. As well as effectively repairing leaky rivets and seams, it creates ... TRADE SECRET: How to fix a leaking aluminium boat with epoxy More
By keeping these four kitchen cupboard favourites in mind, you’ll ensure your thickened epoxy is the right consistency, every time. Thickened epoxy – a mix of resin and hardener with filler added – has a huge range of uses. By varying the amount of filler you use, you can alter the consistency of the epoxy ... What have peanut butter, ketchup, syrup and mayonnaise got to do with epoxy resin? More
Are you about to start fairing a hull? It may seem like a daunting task but there are ways of making the process run more smoothly – and achieve a great smooth finish. Before using fairing boards for final faring, why not try working with a grinding device? It will remove a substantial amount of material very ... TRADE SECRET: Top tips for easy sanding with WEST SYSTEM epoxy More