I like this techinque and wish I could use it. My kayak is made of redwood and discolors SEVERALLY to a jet black when even the smallest part is exposed to saltwater. 100% encapsulation CAN NOT be guaranteed since water damage can occur even with hairline cracks in the epoxy. By cutting the rectangular holes in the hull for the loops, I doubt I could be assured of no water damage. I don't think this is a problem with other woods like western red cedar, but redwood is way too sensitive for me to risk it.

jim gabriel

: Hi All;

: After months of being unable to get to the rigging on my 'yak, it is finally
: underway. As you'll recall, I wanted to use Joe Greenley's "soft
: loop" approach. I ended up using some of the spruce strip I trimmed
: the deck with, cutting it into 2" long blocks. I seems like it will
: be plenty strong enough after the spruce & webbing were epoxied
: together.

: I've got a few more pics of the process on my kayak pages, given below. Click
: on the "Finish" link and scroll down near the bottom.

: Best Regards, Spidey