Preparing the panel edges
The ply hull panels will be joined with an epoxy filler at the mating edges reinforces with a glass tape seam along the centreline and chines.
So that the tape does not sit on the outside of the panels when finished the outer veneer of plywood is taken off in a strip 25mm wide. This gives room for two layers of glass cloth to reinforce the joint.
Most routers will come with a 'fence' to allow the cutter to run along the panel and form a rebate. Take out a rebate of just over 1mm by 25mm wide.
At this stage the initial holes along the seams can also be drilled. These need align so the two bottom panels can be put together and drilled through both panels. Use a drill that gives clearance for the cable ties being used.
Coating the panels
The interior of the hull will be given two coats of epoxy over the whole of the inside. It is easier to do this before the panels are fixed to the building frame. The first coat needs to be put on with a plastic spreader to seal the grain. After sanding a full 'flow' coat can be applied.
The two bottom hull panels are not coated forward of the front cockpit bulkhead as the ply in this area will be steamed to form the bow shape.
