: O.K. Matt

: The guys have told you all you need to know about how much better the ROS is
: than the palm sander, now I'll tell you how to do this AND get your ROS.
: You do just like Jerry said and build a couple of boards with different
: grits on them and also use your existing sander. It WILL work, albeit a
: bit slower. But your Question was about keeping peace at home and getting
: the job done. The sander will take you a bit longer, and the boards will
: give you a more fair surface, so use them. Make sure you let the Wife know
: that you are doing you/her a favor and sticking with what you have and
: will worry about the ROS a little later, when/if you can afford it. Then,
: without whining like a puppie left out in the garage all night, you
: mention how difficult it is doing it this way. Casually!!! Don't Whine, or
: she'll see right through it. Just do the job, take your time and I
: guarantee you will get your ROS for your Birthday/Fathers Day/Christmas.
: Hey, you will enjoy sanding the boat the old fashion way and you won't be
: disappointed with the results either. Even with a ROS, you will sometimes
: fine yourself doing it with the Long Boards. That's the Manly way!!!!
: It'll take time, but you will get your sander, you will keep peace of
: household, and you will have knowledge that the ROS crowd doesn't have.
: Doing your boat by FEEL is the BEST way and you will learn to appreciate
: it. You will be here with Jerry and I telling everyone how wonderful it is
: in no time. Just Do It!! Keep the Peace!

: Rehd

Rehd - you are right. But when I am in a hurry to get a new to tool (sander) there is a different approach. Remember a movie where a woman was at a sculptors pottery wheel. Well, have a loaner ROS on the boat, have your friend/wife put her hands on the ROS and then gently bring your hands around and guide her wrists while sanding the kayak. The smooth motion, the sanding effect, vibration and closeness is wonderful. You'll be suprised at what tools will become necessary for your projects. Chris