On Mon, 20 Jun 2005 18:32:54 GMT, "David J."
wrote:

Hello, I am new to this list and the world of boating. So please forgive
me if I ask some stupid questions.

I recently acquired an old 15' runabout probably a 60's model that used to
belong to my grandfather. It's nothing special but has some sentimental
value so I am going to attempt to fix it up. It had been left uncovered for
2 years and was in pretty bad shape when I got it. A few days ago I
completely gutted it, since everything was covered in mud and standing
water. I actually had moss and some small oak trees growing in it.

So anyway I have it all cleaned up. I gutted it and pressure washed it
inside and out. It desperately needs a paint job. But since I don't want to
put $2,000 into a boat that I could buy for $500 with a decent paint job
already, I am going to attempt to paint it my self. So no doubt I have some
questions. If someone on this has time to help me out I would really
appreciate it.

1. I plan on sanding it down with 120 to 220 grit paper. I have a palm
random orbital sander and a palm circular sander. Which one would be best
to use?

220 if the surface isn't blemished, but I'd go with the 120 if you are
going to repaint. I'd use the random orbit sander and keep it moving.

2. What is the best way to paint a boat? I have an air compressor with a
cheap gun. I have no issues buying a good gun if the cheap one wont work.
What type of primer can I use and does it have to be a special primer? Any
suggestions on the paint. I want to do this the cheapest way possible and
still have it look decent.

Roll and tip will produce the best results.

Get thee hence to here - http://www.awlgrip.com/ - and behold the
wonders of how to paint a boat.

I need to buy seats and carpet too, is there a good place online to buy this
stuff for cheap?

Believe this or not, I picked up all my fabric for renewing seat
covers on an older boat I'm restoring as a fabric shop. Thicker
marine grade vinyl than the boat shop I was going to use.

Later,

Tom