: I am going to build a S&G. I want to know the least expensive route to go.
: What glass should I use? Should I varnish before I glass? Thanks

Hi Ray

I've been using RAKA 127 resin / 350 hardener over 3.25 oz. Satin weave glass and it's fairly economical. www.raka.com

The latest prices I have seen are:

3 gal. ( 127 / 350 ) kit................................. $130.32
3.25 oz. "T" ( tight weave / Satin weave ) Cloth.........

38" wide ......... $4.00 a yard

60" wide ......... $4.90 a yard

6 oz. "T" at 50" wide..... $5.00 a yard

These Prices are US $$$. You can call or email Larry at RAKA and just ask any question you want as he is also Newbie-Friendly.

If you measure the circumference of your boat, you may find that you will get away with the 60" cloth and save some $$$ there.

Some epoxies are thicker than RAKA and would take more time and effort to get it to saturate this cloth, but the RAKA 127/350 is fairly thin and goes through it without a problem. The 350 hardener is also a slow hardener and will not blush, so there is no extra labor cleaning it between coats. It's also Newbie-Friendly. I'm working in 50* on down to 30+* temps and it's giving me around 1 hr. working time. It has been tested and shows a clearer finish than most or all of the major manuf. so that may also be important if you are looking for a particular look. ???

You won't use all that on this one boat, I'm sure, but as I have done, you may want to experiment on some extra pieces to test for strength and appearance. Possibly building some boat racks or something, plus, you will no doubt be looking into another boat before you get this one finished .

Hope this helps!!!

Rehd