Sewing on the Skin - Skin on Frame Kayak - E6

[@GNiessen]

How do you shrink it evenly on both sides to ensure it doesn't cause twisting of the frame?

[@NickSchade]

The fabric is not locked to the frame. It is free to slide and distribute itself evenly. I didn't have any problem despite taking no care to prevent any issues.

[@qaannat]

Nice job of the skin. That's how I did my last one, with the double cords, best seam I've ever done. I used the hemostats (forceps) to pinch the seam instead of the spring clamp, much more precise and they laid out of the way nicely.

[@АлександрВаулин-ь5к]

as in the old days. :-)

[@tsviper]

nice kayak! love your work.

[@shanestevens3343]

Love it!!! Love it!!! I've got Petrel Play SG plans on the way but really really want to do a skin on frame. Keep up the great work looking forward to the skin on frame plans to come out. Stay safe every one....

[@StefKors]

DO you know of a fendor that sells this type of skin in europe?

[@NickSchade]

I am certain there must be a source. The original intent of the fabric was for use in industrial filters. It is very likely there is a source, the trick is finding a source will to sell you a small enough amount to make a kayak.

[@davidheal4623]

Heat-shrink polyester fabric is widely used on amateur-built experimental aircraft. Different fabric weights and quantities are typically available through aircraft parts supply houses.

[@NickSchade]

That is true. The aircraft material tends to be substantially lighter weight (thinner), running in the 1 to 2 ounce/sq yd range, where the material I'm using here is 14 ounce/sq yd

[@davidmontalvo9939]

Can this method be used on lighter 6-8oz polyester cloth with good result? Thank you for illustrating how to deal with the bow/stern when using the welting cord . Always wondered how to finish the stitch . Do you think this would work on a qajaq like Yost Sea Rider with a long taper to the stems? Thanks

[@NickSchade]

I plan on using something like 8-oz in the future. This was just using whatever I had available in my shop.. I've used the same bow stitching treatment on my Greenland style boats. It should work fine on the Sea Rider.

[@billmccaffrey1977]

I recommend you try Tiger Thread, which is a wax polyester braided thread used in leather work. It comes in many sizes and is super strong.

[@NickSchade]

Since the skin gets a finish applied, I do not want a waxed line as it would prevent the finish from adhering.