New Bottom Application

Magic needs some TLC. What is the best way to apply gel coat? I think I used a sponge brush last time.

I like spraying it. Why do you want to add gelcoat and the weight to that canoe?

BWCA66: Because that’s what I was repairing and sanding? Intend to keep it thin, of course. What are you spraying, polyurethane?

I spray gelcoat but your canoe doesn't look like it has any gelcoat, just a skin coat of resin which is probably vinylester.

Oh, that may be. NC sent me this for another boat I no longer own (blue steel), thought I’d use it. I do have resin as well. Which is best- lighter, more durable?

From your photo Black_Fly, it appears that your canoe is a Northstar Magic. According to the Northstar website, they only used gel coat during the first few years of production and have since used vinylester resin (https://www.northstarcanoes.com/northstar-rhetoric/skip-gel-coat-yes/). Northstar sells recoat kits for clear gel coat and vinylester resin (https://www.northstarcanoes.com/accessories/repair/). FYI. I have used Nova Craft's gel coat repair kit, and I believe the instructions that came with it said the shelf life is about three months.

Good luck with your TLC project. Let us know how it goes.

Ah, I have some resin and MKEP. I think it came from Northwest canoe. I’ll see if it’s the right stuff. I see they use rollers to apply. Can’t remember if I used a roller or not. Low nap roller, likely.

If using a roller, I'd suggest the "cigar" type foam rollers, a 4" would be just fine. Be sure it is rated for varnish.
Then tip it with a quality "Jen" foam brush.