Several years ago I began this Geodesic Airolite canoe, the Snowshoe 14. I was so disappointed with the messy epoxied rib to stringer results I nearly tossed the whole thing on the burn pile. Instead, it hung in the garage for a couple years. Recently, a week or so ago I lowered the carcass, got out the heat gun and scraped much of the oozed epoxy off in order to lash the joints. Inwales, breasthooks, floorboards and Dacron skin were added. Sealing coats of varnish and rub rails finished the boat.

Specs cite a 20# finished weigh, but mine ended at 31. My breasthooks and rub rails were heavy cumaru. Douglas fir stringers add pounds over cedar. Chestnut oak ribs exceed poplar or pine. I used what was in the pile of offcuts and I wanted a stout frame.

Lastly, I found the Heatbond tape convenient, but questionable for holding the Kevlar strands and skin long term. I ended up using tacks for the Kevlar and staple for the skin. Two more floorboards were added outboard. Oh, and I designed a rowing “boomerang “ outrigger too.

Tropical storm Ophelia has spoiled the weather for a couple days, so a splash will have to wait. Until then …