Hi
I'm Doug and live on the coast south of Boston. I've been paddling for 5of6 yrs now and was looking for a next step up in boats.I had read nicks book on strip building a few years back and always figured some day i would build.
Well the price of the next step up in boats sent me straight to the garage.
I do do a bit of wood working so was set w/ tools, space and desire
In December i started my 1st building project a night heron hi deck hybrid
and things have been coming along quite well and I have progressed quite rapidly as i just sealed top and bottom last weekend and put the glass on the deck+ one coat this weekend. lots of stuff learned along the way that i will be prepared for the next project. I see how this can become addicting! I have a couple of questions if someone could help.
1)I have 1 coat of resin on after the glass was laid, the fabric texture is disappearing well but I am seeing some "orange peal" or little pitted spots on the finish???i sanded and wiped the first coat down W denatured alcohol before applying the 2nd coat. What can I do before applying the next coat to eliminate this pitting?

2) what are advantages / disadvantages to varnishing vs the auto body shop and clear coat?

OK 3 questions
3) I built my own cockpit instead of using the one that came w/ the kit and was wondering what the height of the bottom of the lip on top of the combing should be off the combing base?
Thanks much for any info
Doug