: I was wondering if we could start
: a list of "How to build it light."

Hi Brian, that's a good topic. I haven't weighed it but my tandem turned out pretty light; I can manage it by myself no problem. For me it's more a mentality. Like the ultralight backpackers who cut the handles off their toothbrushes. Every time I had a decision to make I based it on weight savings (mitigated by the cosmetic appearance I wanted). I know some builders use hardwoods in lightweight boats. I used hardwoods but only as a thin laminate over the Cedar. Also the smoother weave fabrics will give you a lighter layup; look for the 3.2oz or 5oz tight weaves.

Beyond that, many of the other weight-saving strategies are controversial. I seal coat before glassing which I believe does save weight (not everyone does). When possible, I like to lay the fabric into wet epoxy which tends to prevent pooling. That's what comes to my mind. I'm sure there's a lot more/other strategies that work well too.

www.ChipSandresky.com