: Has anyone built a SOF king island kayak? How do they paddle
: compared to greenland or a baidarka? I am looking at using
: polyester. how does poly compare to nylon. Can water based paint
: or varnish be used on poly or nylon?

Poly heat shrinks and doesn't change it's shape like nylon is prone to doing with changes in humidity. Poly also has much less stretch than nylon so it'll tear instead of just moving out of the way like nylon does. Generally means you need a heavier fabric for similiar wear using polyester.

I've had very poor experience with water based finishes to be used on boats, takes way too many coats to cover the surface and isn't nearly as durable or damage resistant as oil based ones.

Bill H.