I am referring the stage in building a sassafras16 when you sand before varnishing or painting. The three coats of epoxy have already been applied. How is the epoxy surface supposed to look after you sand it?
It should be an even dull surface. Any shiny spots indicate low spots (valleys) that the sandpaper “flew” over without touching the epoxy.
If you use a sanding block or properly use an orbital sander and keep it flat relative to the surface, you’ll see many low spots unless you are very experienced applying epoxy or very lucky.
The next step is to sand the high spots down until just before you would get into the glass, then apply more epoxy just to the low spots and sand again when it’s cured. Repeat until the entire canoe is an even dull surface. Now you’re ready to paint or varnish.
Check out the Boatbuilding Tips on the CLC website for more detailed information.
Laszlo
Thank you very much!
Carolyn
And use as high a grit sandpaper as your tolerance for work allows. Ideally 120 but 80 if you work carefully. Make sure you wear a dust mask and hopefully have access to a RO sander with an attached vacuum.
One more thing: do not use anything but manual sanding on the chines (sharp corners) . An electric sander will ruin your day.