: Thanks for the advice on drilling. What kind of bit did you use? Is 3/4"
: too big for a bit (should it be a hole saw)?

I used regular drill bits. They left a 1/8" or so ring around the hole that was white -- the cloth/epoxy cracked or separated a bit there, but it will get sanded down. A 3/4"bit may have more of a tendency to grab the surface, so it might help to get the drill to top speed then gently ease the bit in. I think Ross Leidy fitted a piece of PVC pipe into the toggle-hole of one of his kayaks, so maybe he could suggest how to do a large hole smoothly.

Dean