: Any suggestions as to how to start the keel strips without using staples? I
: tried using the hot glue only but when I start the twists toward the bow
: and stern pieces they pop loose after a few minutes from the stress. Do
: these need to be steamed in order not use staples. I haven't used any yet,
: but I had the staple gun in hand after a few tries last night. Thanks,
: Steve

Hi Steve

You will probably have to steam or soak them. If you have a few clamps, about any type, get a piece of plywood big enough to work on and sketch the approx. shape of the stems, screw or nail blocks on one side of the lines and when you soak or steam the strips, bend them around your blocks and clamp them till they dry. When you take them off, they will maintain an approx. shape and you will have a much easier time attaching them. Make sure they are totally dry before trying to glue. Hope that helps.

Rehd