Recent content by Jim Dodd

One of the main differences between TB III and epoxy, is the gap filling capabilities. I mix Cab O Sill ( Fumed Silica) and ground glass, for anywhere I need to fill gaps, and still be strong. I will also add very fine saw dust for color, if needed. The result is a putty, that I can adjust...

A Friend used Hide glue to glue up strips, on a canoe. It failed. We had a time getting it glassed. After that the Epoxy took over. I bought some Weldwood plastic cement, but never used it. It was to be mixed with water. Think I still have a plastic container of it some where. This last...

No steam, just band saw cut to shape. I did pay attention to the grain of the wood. The long frames had vertical grain, for the most part. I give Praise, to Jim Moran's Book, "Building your own Kevlar Canoe" ! I highly recommend picking up a copy. My difference is that I used a Stripper...

This is my first Webbed seat. I used Stainless 1/4" staples, from Arrow. A little spendy. I tried 5/16" staples, but the Ash was too hard. Even a little too hard for 1/4" staples. I pre cut, and lightly melted the ends, of the straps to prevent unraveling. I just hand tightened, as the Poly...

Put together a few frames, using the new design. Picked up some Polypropylene HD 1" wide, in blue, from Strapworks. What I like about the arched frame, is it allows the paddler to shift his weight, fore and aft, and still be comfortable. The 1" webbing, is heavier than my Snowshoe corded...

Cool Moose pic !

My lower hand rests on the gunnel when I pry. One thing I enjoy about paddling a canoe, is sneaking as close, as I can to game, or a favorite fishing spot, without spooking anything. I learned that as a kid, and it stayed with me. So no. My paddle doesn't touch the gunnel, unless I'm sloppy...

Good test Alan Using the same hull, eliminates the variable, you will find in the Olympic races, between single and double hulls. Years ago, in The Iowa Games, I distinctly remember, a kayaker leaving me in his wake. I attributed it to the hull differences, and the fact the Kayaker was in...

For accents. Aspen and walnut make the most striking combination, in my book. Both are usually available.

WRC. I've built with Redwood, It is harder to work, maybe even a little brittle. No knots Aspen makes a fine accent strip, as it stays white. Harder than WRC, to sand. I picked up some African Mahogany, and decided to use it for accent strip. Walnut makes a better contrast for accent strips. Jim

Looks great.

Another option. In stead of Dynel, or Kevlar ? Try 100% Polyester Fleece, ( Sweat Shirt material). I've used it in place of Kevlar. It will add thickness to the heavy abrasion areas of the stem. No it's not as tuff as Kevlar. Unlike Kevlar it is sandable. It is a great alternative, plus...

Don't worry about it . Paddle it ! I've paddled many Royalex "Hogged" canoes, while participating in river clean ups. It will get you there, and back. You will still have fun ! Hard to beat time on the water, even in a Hogged canoe ! Jim

I've always been puzzled by banging the gunnel with the shaft of the paddle. A canoe is a great craft to silently approach game, for hunting or photography. I noticed she only bangs the gunnels for certain maneuvers. Nice video ! Thanks for sharing Glenn ! Jim

Any business that makes vinyl signs for trucks, can do this for you. Local boat shops should also have a source for you. I greatly detest putting numbers on my canoes, but here in Iowa ? It's the law for anything over 13'.