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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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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
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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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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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