: Alright, so many questions! I'm working towards the hatches of the great auk.
: So here's what I don't know: 1. I cut out patterns from Nick Schade's
: book. Am I right in assuming the dual set of measurements are for the bow
: and the stern cutouts? The bow being the smaller and somewhat the reverse
: of the stern?
: 2. What is the distance between the back of the cockpit, farthest point, to
: the most forward point of the rear hatch? Same question for the bow hatch?
: Say from the most front of the cockpit to the most rear of the hatch. This
: assuming I put in foot braces and a 3" foam bulkhead.
: 3. Can I buy graphite powder locally?
: 4. Can I do this hatch work before I put the final coat and sand the outside
: of the kayak, which I assume I'll do after bonding the hull w/ the deck.
: 5. Do you rec the placement of carbon cloth on the underside of the deck to
: strengthen the deck before I cut the hatches.

: That's enough before I wear out my welcome! Someday I'll be the helper here!

If you're near a West Marine store or one like it, they usually have West brand (different company) graphite in stock or can get it.

Bill H.