I built my first strip boat long before the Internet or instruction books, and it just seemed the logical way, and I have done it ever since.

The main reason is that the deck glass bonds the two halves together. Only the hull side needs feathering. The second reason is that the deck remains fairly flexable with only one side glassed and it is easy to align with the hull. That is not to say that I don't take measures to ensure the hull remains as true to the forms as possible though.

The negative side to doing it this way is that it is better to cut the hatch openings after the deck has been attached and the outside glassed. This ensures that the hatches maintain the same profile as the deck and give a perfect seal.

I do a few things differently to what seems to to be the standard way... Probably because I started strippers so long ago, back in the early eighties, before the books were written, and before their was email and the web to access group knowledge. One just had to figure things out and hope for the best. I have since adjusted some of my practices, largely due to this forum. The things that work well for me I don't change though.

For anyone who may still be unaware, I have a fair few comprehensive photo records of the processes I use, and the order in which I work through a project, on my website. Also the materials I have come to prefer.

http://etiennemuller.com

It's pick and choose what seems useful and logical from every available resource, with a small measure of logical thinking, a smidgen of inspiration, a dose of plagiarism, and a pinch of innovation, that all go together to keep me interested in returning to the puzzle of another project. I do try to give credit where it is due if I pinch an idea. I think we all do in this little fraternity.

Getting back to the point... Here are a couple of photos of the deck glassing. ☺️ Et.