I did a rope coaming lip on mine, and I used nylon, and I don't remember what size. I used the instructions on Skinboat School's website, and sewed it on with the braided polyester fishing line I used to sew the skin with. I was very surprised at how solid the rope felt once I sewed it on. Pulling the stitching tight really made it firm. Then I coated with epoxy, really let it soak in, and painted over that with Dura-Tuff. I think the Dura-Tuff has flaked off, and I'm not sure if it's starting to decompose after 3 or so years, but I'm reasonably happy with it. Keep in mind that a tuiliq or aquilisaq, especially neoprene with rubber side out neo around the coaming, doesn't seal against the rope. It seals against the coaming, so make sure your skin to coaming stitch holes are filled with Lexel or Marine Goop (I don't recommend Aquaseal for this, it will turn yellow and come off.) The rope is there to prevent the tuiliq or aquilisaq from coming off the coaming.

http://skinboats.org/skinboats/finishing_touches.html

Hmmm, thought they had a video up, but all I see is this. Have a look around, you'll find some good tips.

Brian

: I'm really thinking of doing a rope coaming lip and have a few
: questions for you all experts ;)
: Searching the archives pulls up a little info, but...
: I wonder if a natural fiber would be better than nylon or
: polyester. Epoxy or glues would stick better and varnish should
: be absorbed rather than repelled by the fiber. Varnish should
: then harden up the rope nicely, no?
: Wouldn't the rougher surface of the natural (sisal?) fiber get a
: better grip on the skirt also?
: I plan to stitch the rope to the coaming also. Found some good
: instructions for the stitch, I think.

:
: http://www.qajaqusa.org/cgi-bin/GreenlandTechniqueForum_config.pl?md=read;id=379371

: I'll probably use 5/8" rope whatever type I decide on...
: Any links or pics or info you have will be appreciated.
: Thanks
: Tim