How to Make a Gel Coat on a Kayak

Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and has grown into a very popular outdoor sport in recent years. Due to the fact that kayaking is often done in rivers and other large bodies of water, the kayak itself often comes into contact with rocks and other objects that can damage its surface. Whether you want to prevent your kayak from being damaged or you want to repair existing surface damage, making a gel coat for your kayak is a great solution.

Things You'll Need

  • Polyester gel coat
  • 2 medium sized paint brushes
  • Paint (same color as your kayak)
  • Acetone
  • Rubber gloves
  • Large sheet of plastic
  • Container for mixing paint (bucket)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the paint can and the can of gel coat and pour half a can of gel coating into a bucket or basin. Dip the tip of a paint brush into the paint can, then remove the brush and dip it into the gel coat and begin stirring with the brush in a circular motion. As you mix the two substances together take note of the color of the paint and gel coat mixture. Continue adding paint and mixing until the color matches the color of the kayak.

    • 2

      Test the mixture from the previous step by applying a small amount of the mixture to the kayak and comparing the color to the original color of the kayak. Repeat the previous steps until the color matches the color of the kayak. When the correct color is achieved, remove the test coat of gel with a paper towel and some acetone. Wear gloves to protect your skin.

    • 3

      Apply the colored gel coat to the surface of the kayak. Brush the gel coat and paint mixture on to the kayak. Continue to apply the mixture to the surface of the kayak until the area you want to repair is covered completely and uniformly.

    • 4

      Hang a sheet of plastic over the kayak. Do not allow the plastic to touch the wet coat you applied in the previous step. The sheet of plastic should serve as a barrier that prevents air from coming in contact with the kayak so that the gel coat can dry properly. Allow the kayak to dry for 24 hours and remove the plastic.

    • 5

      Clean the brushes and containers using acetone.