raw edge fiberglass tape vs selvage edged for stitch and glue boat

Is it better to use manufactured fiberglass tape with the selvaged edge or cut your own and not have to deal with sanding the selvaged edge down?

 

The finished edge on the tape makes tabbing a lot neater and easier. I also use it often to reinforce seams. Whenever I use fiberglass cloth in a location that is going to be painted and finished smooth, I end up having to sand off the edges anyway as there is always a little ragged edge where the cloth ends.

 

Difficult to cut your own tape.

Edged tape leaves a little ridge. raw edge tape leaves stray fibers. Both have to be sanded off after cure. Its about the same work.

Most stitch and glue ply boats specify 45 45 Biax for seams. Always purchase pre cut biax tapes.

Selvage Edge is not an issue with biax and the cut edge stays tight..doesnt unravel when you work with it .

Buy some...you will like it

 

the tape is cheap - say about $50 for a 3 or 4 inch wide roll 50 yards long. - generally 9 oz. I like 3 inch- two strips over lapping an inch or two over the actual 'seam/joint'.

 

Taped seams by their very nature, will need considerable effort to fair out, so the selvaged edge is a moot point. Frayed edges need just about as much attention, so it's coin flip really. The convenience of a roll of tape can't be ignored.

 

And purchase a few meters of Peel Ply then practice.

Peel ply is magic. It really helps control stray fibers and compacts the edge of the tape, laminate. A peel plied laminate requires much less sanding to hide the cloth edge.

Well worth having some peel ply in your bag of tricks