In a previous article I mentioned a couple of options for replacing or adding flotation to your boat. I pointed out that dry bags and wakeboat ballast bags were more economical than purpose-built flotation bladders. But since small boat folk are usually pretty good DIYers, how about making your own bladders? If you're interested, here's a link to Mik Storer's article on making them, www.storerboatplans.com/boat/sailing-boat/cruising-dinghy/diy-pvc-buoyancy-bags-and-dry-bags-for-dinghies-and-canoes/ .
Materials that you need:
- Bostik Unigrip 999 or 1669 adhesive
- 18 oz Hypalon PVC fabric
- Air valve
A good source for materials for making and repairing dry bags and bladders is NRS (www.nrs.com), a top dry bag and raft manufacturer, as well as supplier for river running gear. They sell fabric, adhesive, and valves. And they have a bunch of useful how-to pages...
Sailrite (www.sailrite.com) is another good source of PVC-coated materials, typically used for biminis and tarps (lighter weight and considerably cheaper than NRS):
- HH-66 adhesive
- 18 oz Shelter-Rite fabric
- 13 oz Weblon Regatta
Since I'm pointing to him, I should also mention that Mik Storer is probably best known for his iconic Goat Island Skiff design. And if you want to know anything about how to build and rig a lug sail, and get the most performance out of it, his website is where you should start. I noticed that he also has a couple of articles on windsurfer masts used for spars -- www.storerboatplans.com/plan/gis/windsurf-mast-lug-yard-goat-island-skiff/ . He's one very frugal sailor...
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