How to measure and apply boat skins

[Ken Smith]

Hey All,

When building a new boat, what is the best way to measure, cut and apply the skins (deck, belly, sponson sides)? I have one of the 1/8th scale hydro kits from ML Boatworks. Awesome kit but I need to cut the skins myself. In particular, the deck and sponson skins seem to be the most challenging. Is there a quick and easy trick to it or is it only a "measure twice, cut once" deal. Also, is it recommended to leave a bit of extra material to ensure full coverage of the boat then sand off the excess after glued? Thanks much!

Ken

 

[Hydro Junkie]

Your best bet would be to take some card stock and use it to trace around where you want to attach the skin. Next, add 1/4" to the outside and then cut the piece out to make a template. Trace around the template onto the ply and then cut out the ply skin panel. Verify the panel will fit and then coat the inside with epoxy followed by clamping/taping in place until the epoxy cures