: I am building a stapleless Panache and plan to use clamping jigs and wedges
: with the occasional spot of hot melt glue to hold the planking to the
: forms. I am ready to start stripping but have been unable to make up my
: mind about which technique to use for preparing the edges of my forms.

: Rob Macks' instructions call for shellac. The instructions are great, but
: don't go into any detail about stapleless construction and none of you
: stapleless experts seem to use shellac.

: Anyone care to comment on pros and cons of my options?

: Thanks,
: Andy.

Hi Andy,

I am currently building a Panache also. Used mdf board for my forms and nothing on the edges. Going stapeless also, I first tried duct tape on the edges but felt that the hot glue released too easily. I did some experiments and decided that nothing on the edge was the way to go.

Two weeks ago, I separated the hull and deck and let me tell you, I thought it would never separate. After alot of cursing, banging and more banging, I was able to get the forms loose. What a pain in the neck. I ended up ok, however, I did stress the fiberglass at the edges of the deck in a couple of spots. A few white spots, I'll have to deal with later.

At any rate, the point is use as little hot glue as neccessary and you should be ok. I think I used too much hot glue.

Keep us posted on your progress.

Steve Pollack