Online Learning: How to use epoxy, best practice and new techniques
If you follow the M4 west as far as it goes, you’ll arrive in the small Welsh village of Crosshands, home to a ‘Panzerkampfwagen VI’ (more commonly known as the Tiger 1 tank). Among other materials local resident Mark Milward is using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy to build a half semi-scale model of the much feared, heavily armoured ... 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 ... More
In part one of this series of how to build a wooden dinghy Steve Goodchild takes us through choosing a design, and making a jig for his Stornoway 16. “I’m essentially a fair–weather sailor,” says retired land surveyor Steve Goodchild. “The trouble is, the weather doesn’t seem to know that.” Nevertheless he decided to combine his two passions of wood working and sailing and build ... More
If you want advice on how to use colour with epoxy, read our top tips. The tints have been specifically designed for use with crystal-clear ENTROPY RESINS® Clear Casting Epoxy, although the tints can be used with all the ENTROPY RESINS products. ENTROPY RESINS products are world renowned for their bio content and sustainable attributes ... More
If you’re finding that you’ve got bubbles when pouring clear casting epoxy, here are some simple techniques to help resolve the problem. Use a little heat to pop the bubbles Use a hot air gun to break the surface tension and burst the bubbles. This should be done as soon as possible after pouring. Care should ... More
Preparing teak strips for bonding Here’s a tip for preparing a teak plank for a small-scale project such as a cockpit table, using teak and epoxy. It could work just as well on a complete deck. Mark at Aquamarine Ltd uses it whenever he wants to bond teak to a substrate rather than physically attach ... More
James Case has been a member of Wells Sailing Club since he was a child. “It’s always had the same bar,” he says, “but when the club decided to do a major refit, we decided to make a new bar with a nautical theme.” Which is where his previous expertise as a self-employed boat builder ... More
The transparency of ENTROPY RESINS® CCR clear casting epoxy makes it ideal for the creation of a ‘river table,’ a furniture design that mimics a stream flowing between two ‘banks’ of wood. River tables (sometimes also called water tables) have become a sought-after piece of furniture as they combine traditional timber with clear cast resin ... More
When fitting out a bare hull or during a refit or renovation project you may find you need to attach some longitudinal or even vertical battens against the bare glass fibre. Read on to find out about fixing battens with epoxy. This process is particularly useful for attaching headlining or in this instance insulation to ... More
If you have to secure a screw or bolt into an area that is almost inaccessible from underneath, then this trick, using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy will prove a brilliant solution. The beauty of epoxy is that it remains a liquid for a useful working period after it has been mixed. This means it can travel ... 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 ... 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. ... More
Hamish, one of West System Technical Team, has a solution for those times when accurate application of epoxy to make a repair on a small surface is key – trim your bristles! Here he explains how to adapt your brush for a delicate repair. “WEST SYSTEM 803 Glue Brushes have one inch bristles which are excellent for priming fillet joints, ... More
The summer months are a good time to restore weathered wooden fittings and trims. The long evenings allow them to be stripped, prepared and primed with WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin with 207 Special Coating Hardener for a rich, deep gloss. Before and after: This 50-year-old wooden pedestal and travel horse assembly was stripped back ... More
Many older boats are made using plywood and this can deteriorate with age, especially if rainwater has been able to penetrate the paint layers. WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy will repair and preserve the wood for many years to come. PREPARATION AND REPAIRS The cabin on my ferro-cement boat was made from 1 inch (25mm) marine plywood back ... More
A step-by-step demonstration of how to make a Canadian canoe using vacuum infusion with PRO SET epoxy, presented by West System International. More
One of the key advantages of learning from the experts is that you pick up some great tips for saving time and money when using epoxy products. Here are some from the recent Beginners Course held at West System International’s UK headquarters near Southampton: Suffering hair loss? “You’ll get through a lot of cheap brushes ... More
Joe White and his son James run ‘J White Guitar Workshops’, a custom guitar build and repair business just outside the English town of Aldershot, Hampshire and can boast many celebrities amongst their clientele. Guitars belonging to Status Quo, Stereophonics, The Rolling Stones, The Kaiser Chiefs and many more have all come in for ‘a bit of ... More
Andrew Wolstenholme is the renaissance man of naval architecture. He’s designed everything from classic broads sailing yachts to production powerboats and gentlemen’s launches, and he’s more prolific than ever. Epoxycraft asked him how he first got interested in boat design; what drives his design philosophy and why so many of his boats use wood/epoxy construction ... 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 – ... More
If you’re going to spend your time off doing jobs around the house instead of reading the paper or going to the pub, you at least want repairs that look great. Get the results you need with WEST SYSTEM® epoxy, says our DIY master David Johnson. Our epoxy guru David has jobs to do around ... More
It’s nearly the Bank Holiday weekend, and for many of us that means quality time with family and friends – and DIY! Did you know that you can use your trusted WEST SYSTEM® epoxy for lots of indoor and outdoor projects – whether it’s fixing a cracked toilet or sorting out problems with your plaster? ... 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. Plain weave, biaxial stitched, twill weave, satin weave. The range of glass cloths available is huge and growing. So how can you make sure ... More
We found this great blog online showing you the step by step process of successfully installing a bow thruster tunnel into your boat yourself – it even shows what to do if there are certain obstacles in the way. The blog comes complete with photos so you can see what the different stages look like. ... More
When this DIY enthusiast was offered a free oak slab from an old tree which had been cut down, he jumped at the opportunity to turn it into something incredible. This great little blog documents his process of turning the spalted chunk of wood into a beautifully finished table – with a little help from ... 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 ... More
We found yet again another useful video made by Andy Miller, teaching you how to give teak a professional wood finish. This easy to follow two-part series walks you through each stage step-by-step – the first part, linked here, begins by running through the materials you’ll need and how to use epoxy to prepare the ... 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 ... More
Check out this great little post from boating enthusiasts Dave and Angi in Ontario, Canada. The pair have documented their experience of building a new rudder for their boat, Dickerson 32 Aft Cockpit Ketch, originally purchased in 1999. Complete with photos, you can really get a good idea of the process here. Read the whole ... More
If you’re new to the world of epoxy and want to learn from the very basics, we have the perfect blog for you. This great guide walks you through everything you need to know about using WEST SYSTEM products – from the types of applications it can be used for, to the various curing stages. ... More
§We loved this entertaining two-part blog from carbon fibre enthusiast Paul Carpenter. Paul, who is also a huge fan of the Oakley brand, decided to try and replicate a pair of their sunglasses using carbon fibre fabric from eBay and our very own WEST SYSTEM epoxy – and the result was fab! Paul’s blog relays ... More
Whatever the project you’re working on, you’ll need several coats of epoxy resin and hardener. Most projects need between two and four. However many coats you’re planning on, you need to recoat at the right time and in the right way and ensure your surface is properly prepared. How you prepare a surface for recoating ... More
A little while ago, we told you all about our very own Richard’s hobby of building and flying model airplanes. This month, our technical expert Hamish Cook shares his passion for archery – and talks us through how he built a traditional flatbow in bamboo and epoxy. The flatbow is the most traditional and ancient ... More
We found this great blog, written by Ted from the Roarockit Skateboard Company, demonstrating a step by step process of how to apply carbon fibre to the top and bottom of a skateboard desk for a smooth, stylish finish. The blog even contains nice clear photos documenting each stage of Ted’s project, so you can ... More
Wooden slabs are rapidly becoming the popular choice amongst home owners and interior designers to create beautiful and unique pieces of furniture – and even works of art. We came across this really useful blog showing how you can turn live edge-slabs, slabs with uneven surfaces or even slabs with deep holes in them, into ... More
It’s one of the most common questions: why isn’t my epoxy curing? Fortunately, when it comes to WEST SYSTEM® epoxy products, it’s quite easy to work out precisely what’s happening. We spoke to our technical guru Hamish Cook to find out what can go wrong and how avoid it happening again. “Why isn’t my epoxy ... More
We came across this great blog written by Peter d’Anjou explaining the advice he gave to his friend for easily repairing surface damage when he scraped his 25-foot boat against some rocks. Peter suggests a DIY method to carry out the repair as well as top tips for working with epoxy – all the while ... More
We loved this fantastic blog by an amateur boat builder from New Zealand, giving you a detailed and helpful step by step guide of how he went about his very first project – a stunning Trimaran built from scratch all by himself in his spare time. We were very impressed! To read more about this ... More
Got a lot of epoxy filleting to do? Or quite a few holes to fill? You might want to think about using a piping bag. It’s quick, clean and easy – and below, we explain exactly how to do it. Whenever we go along to trade shows and boat shows, we typically demonstrate how to ... More
This is a fantastic blog post to help you build a custom cooler to keep your food and drinks chilled for those long, relaxing cruises. Although you can purchase good iceboxes in many shapes and sizes, this way you can make sure it’s the perfect size for the space you have. You can also make ... More
It’s very important to dispose of unwanted epoxy safely. Fortunately, disposing of PRO-SET®, WEST SYSTEM® epoxy and Entropy Resins® is easy if you follow our advice. We recently heard from a customer who had tried to flush some uncured epoxy down the toilet. However, it didn’t flush away and instead stuck to the bottom of ... More
We loved this great blog post from Peter Brown, which he posted after receiving countless requests to re-create these beautiful secret wood rings. Peter takes you through this step-by-step process, complete with clear photos as well as a link to a video documenting the entire process. If you’re feeling creative then why not try it ... More
On the face of it, ‘flame-treating’ a flammable material like plastic may seem like a strange thing to do. However, this useful technique is vital for creating a better bond between epoxy and plastic. Technical expert Hamish Cook is on hand to guide you through the process. Plastic and duck feathers have a lot in ... More
We’ve all had those times when we only needed a little bit of epoxy. Maybe to fill in a chip, fix something that’s broken in the house or to glue something small together. How do you mix a small amount, properly? West System International’s very own technical advisor, Hamish Cook, explains all. I’ve had a ... More
As you know, epoxy isn’t just limited for boat repair projects – we loved this great blog post showing how, with a little imagination, a man went about making a beautiful and unique flower vase for his wife out of just a knife block and epoxy. The blog runs you through the entire process, complete ... More
Technical guru Hamish Cook is always on hand to answer your epoxy-related questions. Amongst the flurry of emails this month was a query about how to fix a broken roof box. Here, Hamish shares his know-how to help you mend and save money. I recently heard from someone who’d broken the lid of their roof ... More
It’s always painful when you damage your car in any way and damaging your bumper is not an uncommon occurrence; whether it’s by accidentally reversing into something hidden from view, or by other drivers scuffing it whilst parking. Whatever the reason, here we are going to help you fix it yourself in 11 easy steps: ... 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 ... More
This a great DIY resource we found for repairing damage to the bow of a canoe. Eb’s Source For Adventure have created this handy blog with a step by step guide – complete with photos – on how to make and apply a skid plate to protect your composite canoes against damage. From preparing the ... More
If you’re new to the world of epoxy and just don’t know where to begin, this simple guide is great to get you up to speed with everything epoxy-related. From discussing the key applications epoxy can be used for, to explaining filler terminology and curing stages, you will have all of the information you need ... More
We found this great resource from a sea-water kayaking enthusiast and blogger, taking you through a simple and easy method for repairing chipping on a soft wooden paddle. Complete with images to support the process of fixing a chipped paddle, this is a great source if you’re looking for a way to fix your paddle ... More
We loved this informative do-it-yourself blog on fixing a damaged Kevlar canoe. If you are looking for a guide to mending light damage then this is the resource for you. It takes you through a simple 11 stage process, covering everything from finding the right resin kit to sanding and finishing the repair. You can ... More
We found this interesting read from Kayaking enthusiast Bryant Burkhardt explaining just how to repair a crack in his cross-linked plastic kayak with WEST SYSTEM G/flex® epoxy. Bryant explains why it’s so important to use a product that fixes the hole or crack in the kayak rather than just filling it, whilst also sharing his ... More
The Merlin Rocket. The Osprey. The 505. The Mirror. The International Moth. What do all of these classic dinghy designs have in common? They’re experiencing a resurgence in popularity – and that’s largely thanks to epoxy resin. We spoke to technical guru David Johnson to find out why. Dinghy racing has its roots in the ... More
WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy has been used to reliably build and repair boats for over thirty-five years but its practical uses aren’t limited to boats or the marine industry. Last month’s blog on ‘make do and mend with epoxy’ got us thinking about all of the wonderful things you can use epoxy for around the house. ... More
WEST SYSTEM Epoxy is a very versatile system. Experienced customers know that by understanding the fundamental characteristics of WEST SYSTEM fillers, hardeners and additives, they can combine and use them in unique ways for their specific application. Here, we guide you through the method for mixing G/flex® epoxy with other WEST SYSTEM epoxies. For years, experienced users have been blending the various products ... More
Epoxy really is a life saver when it comes to common wooden boat repairs. Instead of having to replace entire damaged plywood panels, these areas can be removed and replaced using epoxy to create a strong and resilient wooden boat repair. Boatbuilding with plywood and epoxy has become more popular in recent years. The simplicity ... More
It has probably happened to us all once or twice. You’re all dressed up and just before going out the door you swing through your workshop to check on the project. Sure enough, a dab of epoxy finds its way onto your best trousers. Believe me, it has happened to me plenty of times. My ... More
This is a great resource from a fellow sailing enthusiast working on refinishing the rudders and daggerboards on his boats. The blog takes you through a step-by-step process to complete the task from stripping the pre-existing finish to sanding and using WEST SYSTEM epoxy to fill any holes and cracks. We also liked that this ... More
Barrier coating provides a great way to protect your boat against sun damage and moisture, whilst also supplying a smooth and stable base for your finishing coat. However, if the barrier coating has been damaged, you will need an easy way to restore the coating to ensure your boat is still protected from moisture. Here, ... More
The epoxycraft team are always learning about interesting tips and tricks for working with epoxy. We’re amazed at the resourcefulness out there in our community. For instance, Sarah at Sharp and Enright remembers recommending epoxy to reinforce the front panel of a bath; it worked a treat! Joan and Ted of Bear Mountain Boats, meanwhile, ... 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 ... More
Sail22 have launched their new weekly online feature “Sail22 Tips & Tricks”, where they will be sharing with you the answers to all of your common how-to questions. They kicked off their first ever post with a guide to using their favourite WEST SYSTEM product, Six10 Epoxy Adhesive. We loved that Sail22 have explained why they ... More
When you’ve spent time carefully building or renovating your boat, it seems a shame not to be as diligent with the final steps of giving your boat the perfect finish, smoothing edges and removing unwanted irregularities. A cabinet scraper will remove any trace of irregularities from the surface of an epoxy coating, making it the ... 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 ... 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 ... More
For decades, carbon fibre has been used purely for its lightweight properties, hidden away under the skin of the world’s fastest yachts – but not anymore. Furniture-maker Nicholas Spens puts the black check fabric centre stage in his sinuous, state-of-the-art designs and he trusts PRO-SET® epoxy to add a brilliant and robust finish. “Under ... More
Ever thought about setting off into the sunset to start a new adventure? That’s exactly what this Canadian couple did when they sold their house and bought a boat to travel the world as live-aboard cruisers – despite never having sailed before. So when they discovered this wonder of a crack during their trip they ... More
We loved this fantastic blog post by Brian Milby showing you his process for extending the engine room bulkhead to the bilge. If you’re looking for tips and advice on this, you’ve come to the right place, Brian’s post covers everything from water washing and sanding to bonding with epoxy. Follow Brian’s detailed step-by-step process, ... 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 ... 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 ... More
We were really impressed with this brilliant blog post from epoxy first timer, Dan. He has documented the entire process from start to finish of how he set about fixing a loose thru-hull on his 1981 Nor’sea boat. The easy-to-follow guide comes complete with photos, as well as an account of all of the products ... More
Do you ever need to thicken and change the colour of your epoxy – to fill a split or a screw hole perhaps? Adding sawdust or sanding dust to it can seem like a resourceful way to thicken epoxy but that’s not actually the case. Technical expert Hamish Cook explains why. 1. The chemistry doesn’t ... 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 ... 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 ... 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
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 ... 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 ... More
This is a great resource for those of you who need to mix larger batches of epoxy resin and hardener. When you mix epoxy and hardener, an exothermic reaction occurs which releases heat. The more you mix, the more heat will be generated and subsequently the faster the epoxy will cure, which can be difficult ... More
How to thin epoxy and what to consider before you do Reducing the viscosity of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy by adding a solvent can make it easier to apply, as well as penetrating deeper into porous surfaces such as partially rotten wood and saturating faster into fibreglass fabric. For these reasons, many people are attracted to ... More
How do you ensure that your hardwood structure doesn’t lose its natural sheen over the years? According to engineer and experienced boat restorer Mark Raynes, the answer is preparation, preparation, preparation – plus a good dose of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. You can’t beat the look of natural wood on a boat. On my MANCHESTER AND ... More
We came across this fantastic article from custom boat builder David Roberts of Nexus Marine Corporation on how best to use WEST SYSTEM® epoxy resin and how this versatile marine epoxy has revolutionised wooden boatbuilding. “Built with WEST SYSTEM epoxy” is a claim Nexus Marine proudly make on their boat builds. They go on to ... More
There are fewer things more beautiful than a teak deck with sharp black seams. Every classic boat has them – like Mark Raynes’ MANCHESTER AND SALFORD lifeboat. Here, he talks us through the restoration of his stern deck, step by step. Traditionally, a teak deck was made from one- to two-inch thick planks and the ... More
Captain Glenn James of the Bounty Hunter guides you through his detailed instructions on how to expertly sheath a wooden boat with WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. In doing so he added many years to Bounty Hunter’s life, reduced ongoing maintenance time and boosted performance – the dryer and lighter hull increased her top speed from 15 ... 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 ... 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 ... More
There’s nothing more satisfying than applying that final finish coat after a long project. At the same time, there’s nothing more frustrating than waiting week after week for all those layers of varnish to dry. “Varnishing is often a time-laboured process…But there is a way to achieve the perfect varnish, in less than half the ... 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 ... More
We recently came across a great story of how Geoff Morbey built a beautiful red cedar and oak kayak, with materials sourced from his own backyard. Geoff demonstrates what can be achieved with craftsmanship, dedication and WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. It certainly was a labour of love but we’re sure you will agree that the stunning ... More
You’ll be amazed at the results achieved by Torie Morley and Toby Hamer in bringing back to life a Fireball dinghy which hadn’t been afloat for 20 years. With the help of layers of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy their efforts were suitably rewarded when they entered the 2014 Fireball nationals (and were given the nod of ... More
When it comes to protecting your wooden boat from water penetration, defence is the best form of attack. Coating with a marine epoxy like WEST SYSTEM® epoxy is the best way to waterproof surfaces and guard them from any unwanted ingress. But even the most diligent coater might miss a nook or cranny and leave ... 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
The thought of renewing double diagonal hull planks strikes fear into the heart of many an expert in wooden boat repair. But Mark Raynes has repaired 3,300 ft of it on his antique lifeboat the MANCHESTER AND SALFORD. In this blog he explains why there’s no need to panic and gives you his top tips ... More
In his informative video, boatbuilder Jason Eke walks the aspiring coater through the process of sealing the deck and gunwales of a strip planked canoe with epoxy resin. Jason describes coating with the final layer of epoxy as one of the most rewarding parts of boatbuilding while he applies a layer of WEST SYSTEM 105 ... More
Boatbuilder Agur Paesuld is currently embarking on his latest boatbuilding venture, building a Wharram Tiki 21 catamaran – with nothing but the paper plans. ‘From Paper to Water’ is tagline of his blog, where he documents each stage of his build process. Through a variety of photos and time-lapse videos, we’re following Agur as he ... 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 ... 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. ... More
Marquetry is the boatbuilder’s opportunity to get creative with their craft. But a lot of us are more technical than artistic. Luckily, there are a few quick tips that can turn even the most creatively challenged among us into a master of marquetry. With the right advice and the right products, no boatbuilding task is ... More
With plywood boats susceptible to rot, a solid epoxy coating is essential to fully protect your boat from moisture. This eHow article takes readers step-by-step through the process of sealing plywood using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. Follow this process to ensure your boat stays protected for longer. 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 ... More
Over and over again we see boat builders on forums, support websites and YouTube seeking help to avoid a particularly annoying side-effect of using epoxy, amine blush. This waxy bi-product can have some difficult consequences if not dealt with correctly. Fortunately, there are some very quick and simple methods of getting rid of it. You’ve ... 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 ... More
After finding his paddle had begun to chip due to contact with rocks, this blogger sought an alternative to traditional materials to repair and protect his stick. This blog documents the repair of a traditional wooden paddle carried out using thickened WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. By masking up, sanding and shaping a small amount of thickened ... More
Gary Thompson was visiting the famous Red Sky Craft boatyard in Kotka, Finland, when he came across a simple but ingenious solution to dispensing large volumes of WEST SYSTEM® G/flex epoxy. Allan Savolainen and his team at Red Sky are big fans of WEST SYSTEM G/flex 655 epoxy, using it for all their bonding applications. ... More
Nexus Marine Corporation, a custom wooden boat building and design services company based in the US, explains how cold-moulding with epoxy resin is perfect for improving the integrity and longevity of your hull. Their website documents each building stage of the Admiral Phormio, a 34’ Odyssey sailing boat, including detailed photos and descriptions throughout. Discover ... 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 ... More
Blog writer Gary Willcox claims that applying epoxy to the frame of your sailing boat is “an absolute must” for anyone wanting to increase the performance of their boat. His in-depth article explains the step-by-step method of epoxying the frame of a Hobie 16 together to achieve a stiff, well-sailing boat. What’s more, his techniques ... More
This blog documents the restoration of the beautiful small boat, ‘Swamp Thing’. With a little care and attention, even something that at one time seemed irreparable, is restored to its former glory with the help of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. More
Don’s inflatable dinghy was becoming a little threadbare and, without a motor, it was of little use when trying to row in the strong winds. With the help of his team, he decided to upgrade to a ‘stitch & glue’ dinghy. As well as being far more practical, this blogger thought it would make a ... More
Whilst giving their sailboat an upgrade, the Ceol Mors became concerned that the tiny little pits and crevices that had been worn into their hatch frames would provide an entry for salt water. Keen to avoid a replacement, Mark began hatching a WEST SYSTEM® epoxy plan to give their frames a new lease of life. ... 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 ... More
When installing hardware it’s essential that you plan the process meticulously to avoid any safety issues or on-board damage along the way. This Trade Secret shares two methods to keep your hardware secure and watertight using WEST SYSTEM epoxy. At one time, installing hardware may have been seen as a process best left to the ... 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 ... 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 ... 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 ... More
You’ve got your masking tape to hand and the waterline is ready to be marked up against the boot-top. But when it comes to the crunch, sometimes you just need an expert hand. David Johnson, Technical Operations Manager at West System International, explains how to mask up correctly and what, exactly, it has to do ... More
In the days of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’, there is always a way to minimise your leftovers. David Johnson uses his epoxy experience to offer his top tips on working with these disposable consumables. As the saying goes, you have to break a few eggs to make an omelette. When it comes to epoxy, you have ... More
No matter what material your boat is built from, just a single chink in its armour is enough to reduce its lifespan. A weak coating can be a big financial mistake and affect your vessel’s longevity. Gary Thompson, WSI Technical Expert, explains why defending your boat with epoxy is the best form of attack. Time ... More
The clue is in the name. WEST SYSTEM G/flex is, well, flexible and as this blogger has discovered, that makes it particularly suitable for repairing kayaks. 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 ... More
In a world with limited resources, the need for alternative boat building methods is becoming more and more crucial. Renowned boat builder Ted Moore looks at how WEST SYSTEM® epoxy can be used to make use of less than ideal wood in a way that will stand the test of time. With 35 years of ... More
In rough weather, a sturdy hand rail is an essential. That’s why, when sailing adventurers Livia and Carol discovered theirs had become unstable, they began a speedy repair using their drill, screws and epoxy. This post takes readers through the simple steps they took to make this repair. More
Epoxy is the perfect solution to help with the common wooden boat repairs. Instead of replacing entire damaged plywood panels, damaged areas can now be cut out and bonded into place creating a strong and resilient wooden boat repair. Boatbuilding with plywood and epoxy has become a popular choice in recent years. The simplicity of this method ... More
Epoxy fillets can make a bond between components even stronger than the components themselves, ensuring that loads can be transferred between structures and panels effectively, with no risk of stress fractures or other structural issues. In this blog, David Johnson explains what they are and how they work. In Part II, we overview the five ... More
Dry rot is the natural decay process that causes wood to discolour, crack, shrink and – worst of all – lose its strength. Fortunately, when the worst does strike, you can rely on epoxy to save the day. In the bilges, behind cupboard doors, at the bottom of the chain locker or under the bunks; ... More
David Johnson, West System International technical expert, explains why epoxy should be the only resin system you reach for if you’re looking to effectively sheath your deck or hull. The benefits of sheathing the key structural elements of a boat come down to one word: durability. By using glass cloth and the adhesive qualities of ... 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 ... 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. 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’, is ... More
It’s something of a well-trodden path for many boat owners on a budget: to follow some simple plans in order to build a competitive boat at a fraction of the cost of buying that’s already been put together. Today, the home build kit boat dream tends to rely very much on modern materials such as ... More
At one time, discovering a large hole in your aluminium canoe may have meant admitting defeat with a trip down to the nearest recycling bin. But, with the rising popularity of epoxy products for boat repair, there is now a long-term solution that can means your boat can withstand further knocks and pressure – and ... 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, ... 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 my earlier blog, Preparing for a fibreglass boat repair, I looked at the importance of working out the extent and type of damage you’re facing – ... 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 ... More
Paul Calder, son of boat-systems guru and author Nigel Calder, is looking to find out more about boat maintenance and repair. His latest blog keeps readers updated with useful hints and tips for working with epoxy resins. He recommends the best containers for helping epoxy set and which utensils will help to get the most ... More
Charlie Hussey, a professional marine carpenter who uses wood to build, restore, repair and upgrade all types of boats, reveals his process for using epoxy on his informative blog: Charlie Hussey – Marine Carpentry. He is currently restoring M.Y Fortuna II. He began the restoration process earlier this year after hauling her out of the ... More
Become an expert when thinning your WEST SYSTEM epoxy by reading Brian Knight’s article here. The detailed, scientific and informative article by Brian Knight appeared in Epoxyworks, published by the Gougeon Brothers, all about how to thin your WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. They answer that boat building question on whether thinning your epoxy is necessary, and ... More
The art of wooden boat repair has been revolutionised by epoxy. It’s now possible to perform a restoration on a boat in an advanced state of deterioration, without breaking the bank. In Douglas Heckrotte’s article, he tells us how he transformed his old boat into the sleek Flying Dutchman he had always wanted – and how replacing the eroding ... 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 ... More
The writers at eHOW have created an easy-to-follow guide to building your own plywood boat using marine epoxy. This guide is registered at skill level easy, therefore any budding boat builders can give it a go! What do you have to lose? Follow the link here to begin building your very own DIY plywood boat. More
Adding a thickening agent, or a filler, to a two-part epoxy mix advances your game to a new level according to Tim Layton, an avid epoxy user. After experiencing some amateur failures when using epoxy he has now become somewhat of an expert and shares his tips on why adding a thickening agent can change ... More
Winter is a time when many boaters migrate away from the water and into the workshop or boat shed in order to repair their vessels or even to build their next ones. If you’re one of these people and you are using marine epoxy, you will most likely know that it’s very sensitive to temperature ... More
According to Kurt Hughes, a lack of cash does not need to be the end of the road when it comes to building your dream boat. In fact, he insists you can get more boat for your money by building a plywood and epoxy model instead of a composite one. The multihull designer says you ... 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 ... More
Norman Ralph, writer of ‘Tanks a lot, part 3’, taken from ‘Good Old Boat’ magazine explains how he repaired the diesel tank of his boat ‘Bluebonnet’ using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. Marine epoxy can cure numerous elements of your boat to prolong its life on the water. Norman is a loyal WEST SYSTEM epoxy user and it ... More
Prevention is the best solution to keeping your boat healthy and on the water, according to the writers and boat fanatics at ‘Compass Marine how to’. Every boat has a ‘core’ that is in danger of becoming saturated and eventually rotting. Preventing this happening with the help of WEST SYSTEM® epoxy can hold your vessels ... 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 ... More
Sustainable living is the future. This pair of boat-builders, Simon and Cat Holman, wanted to live sustainably by fishing locally, after hand-crafting their very own boat. Simon and Cat showed that not only is it achievable, it is also feasible even with a limited space – provided the right materials are available. By using epoxy ... More
Marine epoxy is a thoroughly useful material to have with you not just in the boatyard but out to sea as well. It can fulfil any number of purposes when you’re out and about, including small repairs and filling. Sailing Today have recently run a feature on how to go about choosing the most suitable epoxy for ... More
Willie Crear has been a boatbuilder and racer for over 50 years. Find out why he uses PRO-SET® epoxy on his projects as opposed to cheap polyester resin on his website. And see more about his I-20 and M-20 builds. Why Epoxy Resin, not Polyester? – Willie Crear, boatbuilder 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 ... More
It’s really quite tricky to find naturally occurring turns these days, where the grain is the shape you need to make a knee, or breasthook. But never fear! Richard Toyne at Classic Boat has explained how you can manufacture your own knee by bending thin layers of wood to the right shape and gluing them together ... More
Would you like to protect your wooden boat from damage caused by the salt and moisture in the air? Brenda Priddy at eHow has posted a simple six-step process for sealing wood using WEST SYSTEM® epoxy. See what she had to say here: How to Seal Wood With West System Epoxy | eHow. More
Even without steam, wood can be remarkably flexible – and, indeed, just the job for installing a nice new teak cap rail on a yacht. This wooden boat repair can be a tricky process. Bending the wood can cause it to break or splinter at stress points. Luckily, Richard Toyne at Classic Boat has written some advice ... More
So you’ve just pulled your boat from the water, only you’ve noticed blisters in your gelcoat. Now if you leave it, they may disappear, right? Wrong. If you ignore the damage then it could mean greater trials further down the line. That could mean a massive overhaul of your hull… gelcoat removal… a full-blown barrier coat ... More
Not sure whether epoxy has what it takes to fix your fibreglass boat? “It’s versatile, strong, reliable – and more than a match for polyester resin”, says Hamish Cook, Technical Advisor at West System International. Fibreglass boats – like all boats – get damaged. It’s inevitable. Collisions and groundings cause everything from small nicks to serious ... More
Hamish Cook, Technical Adviser at West System International, explains why two-step bonding should be your first choice for structural strength. Two-step bonding is a straightforward process. You wet out the surfaces you want to join using a mix of resin and hardener – that’s step one. Then you add filler to the mix and use this ... More
If you suspect that a seam or rivet is leaking on your aluminium boat, try following the simple seven-stage process demonstrated in this video. It could have you back on the water within a couple of hours! All you’ll need is a heat source, a wire brush and an epoxy repair pack. Something like the WEST SYSTEM® 655-K ... More
Don’t panic! It’s easily done and, thankfully, pretty easy to fix too. Follow the 11 steps in this video to see how you can use the WEST SYSTEM® 406 Colloidal Silica epoxy and several patches of reinforcing fabric cut to size to fill in holes in a fibreglass boat. Once you’ve painted it or applied ... More
In this 8-page article on Sailing Today, our very own David Johnson shows that laminating using vacuum bagging is well within the reach of the reasonably skilled DIY’er. Starting with a second-hand laminated wooden centreboard from a Fireball dinghy, David uses the vacuum bagging process to create a strong rudder blade for a Swift 18. He ... More
Sometime after the fairing and shaping stage of you epoxy boat repair, but before final coating, it might be an idea to give the joints in your structure extra reinforcement and abrasion resistance by applying glass cloth. WEST SYSTEM® reinforcing fabrics are specially designed to do this and can be applied in multiple layers, or ‘laminated’ ... More
The bonding stage is where your project will really start to come together. A combination of good surface preparation and the right adhesive will help make a joint strong. The so-called ‘two-step bonding’ process is the best bonding technique to use in most situations. That’s because it makes the epoxy penetrate the bonding surface to the ... More
It’s lightweight, stiff and resistant to fatigue but, when subjected to rot, wood can lose strength, weakening the overall boat. Nexus Marine use WEST SYSTEM® epoxy coating on their wooden boats to keep the moisture out. Learn why they find epoxy useful for adhesive, coating, filleting and many more applications here: WEST SYSTEM epoxy and our wood/epoxy ... More