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Paper mache Kayak?

#1 2007-02-17 22:26:29

fishy1
Member
Registered: 2007-02-17
Posts: 5

Paper mache Kayak?

Possible?  I read somewhere on the internet about a compition between US universities building kayaks out of paper based products, but could I build one out of paper?  I once build a couple of bowls made from newspaper strips soaked in water then squeezed dry and formed over a bowl using PVA glue.  I was very impressed how light and strong they were.  I see no reason it couldn't be done structurally, but my main problem seems to be waterproofing it.  Maybe using some kind of polyester resin in place of PVA glue?  I also wondered about using paraffin wax to waterproof it, but I don't think that's the best idea.  I also heard about specialist yacht varnishes that can waterproof paper mache, but I'd anticipate getting a few bumps and scratches to the kayak and so it could soak up water through the holes.  That's why I thought using something waterproof in place of PVA glue would be better, or possibly a waterproof paper mache with a coat or six of varnish on top for extra secrurity?  Many thanks

EDIT: searched for kayaks before making this post, didn't think to search for canoes, found a helpful thread.  Toying with the idea now of making a simple wooden frame (very simple) and overlaying it with paper mache.

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#2 2007-02-17 23:52:01

newmodeller
Member
From: Nottingham
Registered: 2007-02-07
Posts: 240
Website

Re: Paper mache Kayak?

Read Chris Shillings piece on his model narrow boat.
It is on the front page of this site.  what he discovered should hold true for any size of boat


www.pawtraits.co.uk
www.puppetsndolls.etsy.com
Papiermache.co.uk gallery: Charlotte Hills

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#3 2007-02-23 21:52:54

fishy1
Member
Registered: 2007-02-17
Posts: 5

Re: Paper mache Kayak?

I really need it a bit stronger, and able to take hits.  I planned to make it from pulp, not just layers of paper.

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#4 2007-02-24 02:44:37

CatPerson
Moderator
From: Washington State, U.S.A.
Registered: 2006-01-09
Posts: 1314

Re: Paper mache Kayak?

All the info on PM boats and canoes that I've seen used laminated paper, not pulp.  Personally, I think pulp is the weaker of the two when stress is applied.

Sue

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