Transform your hull restoration. Watch how heat softens epoxy for easy fiberglass fabric peeling. Essential safety: good ventilation and a mask are a must. #BoatRepair #Fiberglassing #DIYBoat #HullRestoration #FiberglassRemoval

Sometimes fiberglass layups just don't go as planned. In this video, I walk through how I removed a failed fiberglass and epoxy layup from my kayak after suspecting the glass cloth had been contaminated ,causing the epoxy to not bond properly. Using a heat gun, I was able to soften the epoxy just enough to peel the fiberglass cloth away cleanly. I'll show you the technique I used, what to watch for, and how to avoid damaging the kayak surface underneath. Whether you're dealing with a bad layup, contaminated cloth, or just need a do-over, this method might save your project. Season 4 - Episode 31 What's covered: - Why the layup failed (possible cloth contamination) - Using a heat gun to soften cured epoxy - Peeling technique to remove fiberglass cleanly - Surface condition after removal “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: https://youtu.be/YRB-PXW0aK4 How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Before the epoxy, before the stain, before the water, there is the fairing. That long, quiet conversation between the builder and the hull. As a sculptor I've always felt more at home reading a surface with my hands than my eyes. The block plane finding its voice, the rhythm of the longboard, the moment when the tool disappears and there's nothing left but the wood telling you the truth about itself. Part of my Little Auk kayak build. “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak

Before the epoxy goes on, the hull has to be right. Not just structurally right, but truly, honestly fair. In this video I take you through the fairing and staining of the hull of my Little Auk kayak build, a process that sits somewhere between woodworking and sculpture and asks as much of your hands as it does your eye. As a sculptor, fairing has always felt like familiar ground reading a surface with your fingertips, listening to what the material wants to be, coaxing a form toward something that feels inevitable rather than imposed. I take you through the full process, from the first passes with the plane through to longboarding, sanding, and the constant conversation between tool and wood that fairing really is. Then the stain. I'm using an alcohol-based stain here, chosen specifically because it plays well with epoxy, it penetrates the wood cleanly, locks in beautifully under the epoxy coat, and brings out a warmth and depth in the grain that a water-based product simply can't match. Watching the color come up on a faired hull for the first time is one of those quiet, satisfying moments that reminds you exactly why you build by hand. If you're building a kayak, thinking about building one, or just love the craft of working wood into something that moves on water, this one's for you. “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: [ VIDEO LINK ] How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Haven 12 1/2 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9esMHaAcxR-C_rUz_HsWw-A Building Victoria. Arabella's Tender https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dGkK_eS1n3RrNtlvG8UXjG Carvel Planking Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c7j90pis6HEBCzfdjPMjty Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Not all epoxy measuring methods are created equal. From the simple pump that comes in the box to the professional-grade metering pump, each method has its place depending on your project size and budget. Watch to find out which one fits your workflow @TheArtofBoatBuilding “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com

Fiberglass tape won't lay flat on sharp outside curves? Cut your glass on the BIAS! This trick gets a clean, wrinkle-free layup on any tight curve — no bridging, no lifting. Game changer for boat builders! @TheArtofBoatBuilding #woodenboatbuilding #fiberglass #BoatBuildingTutorial

Sometimes you have to swallow your pride and fix what went wrong. In this episode I show exactly how I did that. I'm back in the shop working through some mistakes from earlier in the build before moving on to an important milestone: epoxy taping all the inside seams of the Little Auk kayak. This step is crucial for waterproofing and structural integrity, and there's definitely a knack to getting clean, bubble-free tape runs inside a tight hull. In this episode I track down and correct the mistakes, then mix up the epoxy and get into the inside seam taping. I share some tips for working inside a small hull where space is tight. I use fiberglass tape in the fore and aft sections and carbon fiber in the cockpit area, and both require a very different approach. Whether you're building your own kayak or just along for the ride, I hope this episode gives you the confidence to tackle your own fixes and keep moving forward. Season 4 - Episode 29 of The Art of Boat Building “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: [ VIDEO LINK ] How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Haven 12 1/2 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9esMHaAcxR-C_rUz_HsWw-A Building Victoria. Arabella's Tender https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dGkK_eS1n3RrNtlvG8UXjG Carvel Planking Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c7j90pis6HEBCzfdjPMjty Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Small damage, easy fix. I cut a little piece of matching wood, shaped it up, and glued it in, and you'd never know it was there. Sometimes the old-school way is the best way. @TheArtofBoatBuilding

Graphite powder + epoxy = the cleanest, strongest fillets for CF builds. Smooth and lightweight with that metallic dark sheen that matches the carbon fiber perfectly for a factory finished look. No more ugly white or gray fillets ruining your build. “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: [ VIDEO LINK ] How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Haven 12 1/2 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9esMHaAcxR-C_rUz_HsWw-A Building Victoria. Arabella's Tender https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dGkK_eS1n3RrNtlvG8UXjG Carvel Planking Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c7j90pis6HEBCzfdjPMjty Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Watch the intricate process of applying fiberglass and resin to a boat hull. Special techniques used for tricky spots, ensuring a smooth, durable finish with brush and roller. #boatbuilding #fiberglassing #DIYboat #Epoxy #rKayakBuilding

Tired of uncomfortable kayak seats? See how a 'bum voyage' seat with a full backrest and easy Velcro installation transforms your paddling experience. Simple to install and remove for cleaning. #KayakSeat #BoatingGear #PaddlingLife #ComfortUpgrade

What's the secret to clean seams, rock solid fittings, and a perfectly aligned kayak deck? In this episode I'll show you exactly how it's done. I start by creating smooth, professional quality epoxy fillets that reinforce joints while giving your build that crisp finished look every builder aims for. Next I move on to installing foot brace anchor bolts using small pre-preg carbon fiber patches for a clean and incredibly strong result. And finally I tackle attaching the deck to the hull using strapping tape and CA glue — a fast, reliable method to hold everything perfectly in place before final bonding. Whether you're building along or just love the craft, this episode of The Art of Boat Building is packed with practical techniques you can put to use right away. The Art of Boat Building — Season 4, Episode 28 #BoatBuilding #KayakBuild #EpoxyWork #DIYBoat #Woodworking “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: https://youtu.be/4eEoQMS3sfU How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Haven 12 1/2 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9esMHaAcxR-C_rUz_HsWw-A Building Victoria. Arabella's Tender https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dGkK_eS1n3RrNtlvG8UXjG Carvel Planking Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c7j90pis6HEBCzfdjPMjty Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Discover a 30-year-old artist's trick using Gesso to perfectly seal canvas to wood. Ideal for projects from art carts to sculptures, it's a durable and effective sealant. #Gesso #ArtHacks #DIYProjects #Canvas

Tired of screwdrivers slipping and damaging surfaces? The key to perfect slotted screw installation is a perfectly fitting screwdriver. Ensure it fills the slot completely for a tight, secure fit every time. #SlottedScrews #ScrewdriverTips #BoatBuilding #ToolTips

The quiet satisfaction of paddling a self-built kayak. It's not just about the smooth glide, but the problem solving, patience, and lessons learned in every imperfect moment. #BoatBuilding #DIY #Kayaking #Craftsmanship #Reflection

Unlike fiberglass, carbon fiber stays black whether wet or dry, hiding resin penetration. This lack of visual cue makes wet layups tricky, risking weak, void-filled laminations. Pre Preg/Wet Preg offers a clear solution. #CarbonFiber #CompositeMaterials #LayupTips #PrePreg

The final hull closure is complete! Strips were precisely cut and joined, marking a significant step in the boat building process. The result? A sealed and satisfying finish. #BoatBuilding #DIYProjects #Woodworking #KayakBuilding

Unlock a flawless, amine-blush-free surface for your next project. Peel Ply ensures a superior bond every time. Simply apply, squeegee out air, let cure, and peel for a perfectly prepared surface. No more post-cure sanding! #PeelPly #Epoxy #CompositeRepair #DIYProjects #BondingTips

Peel ply is going to change the way you work. In this video I'm diving into one of the most useful materials in composite boatbuilding — peel ply. If you've ever spent hours sanding a layup just to prep it for the next coat, you need to see this. I share what I got wrong, what I learned, and everything you need to know to get it right the first time. In this video you'll learn: What peel ply is and how it works. What it does to your laminate surface. How to apply it correctly step by step. The mistakes I made and how to avoid them. Tips and best practices for your own build. Whether you're building a boat from scratch, doing repair work, or just getting started with fiberglass and epoxy, this video is for you. “If you’re going to make it, make it beautiful.” Bob Emser As an advocate for backyard boat builders I offer a free 30 minute chat about your project. If you'd like to schedule a chat here is a link. https://calendly.com/artofboatbuilding/boat-building More from The Art of Boatbuilding https://theartofboatbuilding.com/ Subscribe for more Boat Building from The Art of Boat Building: https://www.youtube.com/user/bobemser/featured?sub_confirmation=1 Share this video with a friend: https://youtu.be/GNVzhx71vhg How to support The Art of Boat Building. Purchase Official Merchandise here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-art-of-boat-building/ Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/theartofboatbuilding Watch next Recommended Playlists Building Kayaks https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c43ExyzNDgq3z8qCcFvwWI Haven 12 1/2 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9esMHaAcxR-C_rUz_HsWw-A Building Victoria. Arabella's Tender https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dGkK_eS1n3RrNtlvG8UXjG Carvel Planking Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9c7j90pis6HEBCzfdjPMjty Tool Making: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEOO85GTL9dybkv4vs5lvflq1b47XPpz Let’s connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobEmserAmericanSculptor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofboatbuilding/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobemser/ Bob Emser American Sculptor: https://www.bobemser.com #theartofboatbuilding #artofboatbuilding #makeitbeautiful#woodenboatbuilding #buildingasmallboat #buildingasailboat #shipwright #toolbuilding #Haven12 #herreshoff #shipwright#BoatBuilding #WoodDuck12 #KayakBuilding #Woodworking #DIYBoats #WoodenKayak #MarineCraft #BoatMaker #Craftsmanship #WoodworkingProjects #BoatBuildingTutorial

Achieve the perfect epoxy mix every time! Learn to use measuring cups for a precise 2:1 ratio of resin to hardener for large batches of epoxy #EpoxyResin #DIYProjects #CraftingTips #2to1Epoxy