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Latest articles by Captain James R. Watson
by Captain James R. Watson Above: For wet sanding epoxy, a typical grit sequence for smoothing an already flat surface would be 80 or 100 grit, then 150 or 180 grit, and finally 220 grit. Wet sanding with waterproof sandpaper is often the best approach to sanding cured epoxy. Wet sanding epoxy emoves any amine blush […]
by Captain James R. Watson There are those who still question the longevity of an epoxy composite structure. They state that the technology is still too new to know how it will hold up long-term. Some have said that epoxy composites fail in the tropic heat; other critics have warned of the hazards of wood […]
by Captain James R. Watson Boats are my first love, but I get excited about projects like this Supermileage® vehicle, other SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) and airfoil carved-foam bicycle. My job offers great opportunities to talk to some of the most talented and positive thinking people around: sculptors, inventors, rocket builders, and good ol’ […]
by J.R. Watson Many wooden canoes and kayaks are viewed as objects of art, with finishes that have been rubbed and varnished and rubbed over and over until they glow. I’ve seen such beauties with a note nearby that says “DO NOT TOUCH.” But is that beauty only skin deep?
By Captain James R. Watson When I was building my first boat, my dad used to drive me nuts as he sat in his rocking chair considering “how to proceed.” I wanted to see the chips fly. Now, after many of my own projects, I realize the wisdom of studying the sequence of events from […]
