I am sorry if this has been addressed before but I could not find a consistent answer using the search or reading articles and books.

I am building a 14 foot Great Auk. I purchased the plans, not the kit. I am using 3/16" thick strips without cove and bead. I have sanded the deck to 150 grit and the hull to 100 thus far, so I am thinking I am pretty close to being ready to take the next step.

I have three quick questions:

Should I sand to 220 at this stage or stop at 150? Things look really nice on the deck and all swirls and rough spots seem to be addressed. I had read you do not want to oversand or make things too smooth for a variety of reasons. I am thinking finish the hull to 150 and a light hand sand and move to the next step.

Secondly, I am planning on doing a seal coat of epoxy. I have noticed many do not. Other than weight and an added step, is there any other reason I should forego this step?

And last, what weight of cloth should I use? CLC ships 4 oz. with this kit. I am assuming they are basing this on their 1/4" cove and bead strips that come in the kit. Should I use 6 oz cloth with the 3/16" strips or stick with the 4 oz. and double it up as needed?

Thanks in advance. You all have been extremely helpful answering my previous posts and I have learned a lot and have been having a great time on this first build.

Mike