: That's right, this is a 2 part female mould. The "plug" was what we
: layed the mould onto. The black look comes from tint we added to the
: gelcoat. The layers are 2 gelcoat, 3oz fiberglass chopped strand mat, 18
: oz fiberglass roving, then the framework.

Simon,
That chopped strand mat, and the fiber glass roving...is that stuff a sheet of fabric like say 8 oz cloth? And how is fiberglass roving compared to the same? Is their application much different than the fabric we've come to know and love? Oh, and what do you use to "hold it all together", epoxy? If so, it must take a consideral amount. I'd think this method would be well suited to Kevlar and carbon fiber construction as well.

: As for trimming canoes, that is up to each individual. We're each planning to
: make a couple of canoes off this mould, and then rent it out to other
: friends that would like one. I will definitely use ash trim for my canoes,
: but more for the economics of it. I looked into plastic gunnels, and they
: cost at least twice that of the ash ones.

Good idea on the wood trim. Good idea to rent out the mould too. Hope your friends are interested...if not to help offset your own costs, but also so you all can go "tripping" together. Surprise of all surprises to learn that ash gunnels would be more economical than plastic. Thanks for the response!
Bill