Hello again, I recently "acquired" a tossed out lifeguard device. It is one of those long rectangular foam bandoliers that supports a swimmer in emergencies. I cut the sucker in half for two floats and have proceeded to stitch it into a polyester work apron. Each float measures 8in. across, 17.5 in in length and 4 inches tall. It looks great with several small pockets on the top of the paddle sleeve for flashlights, snaplights, whistles and other safety gear. When I finish the first one, I will test it out in the local heated pool for buoyancy. If all goes well, I will give it to my paddling partner as a Christmas gift. As a male of little sewing experience, I hope she will be impressed by my effort. I know my nonpaddling wife was wondering why the hell I sat there SEWING until 2 o'clock in the morning. I guess I just want to get it right. It is looking close to finished though. My questions for you, fellow paddlewisers, is how the hell do I get all the seams to face on the inside. I can't think of a way to do this with the bag inside out and the float removed. How much buoyancy should a person look to in a paddle float? I supposemy ultratippy Wavehopper (which I sometimes use for touring/camping) would require more bouyancy in the float than my friends more stable Shadow. I can climb in unassisted in the Shadow, but stand no chance in the Wavehopper. The tippier boats practically demand a full stirrup/float application. Any recommendations to the amount of floatation I should use? I have added a good amount of closed cell foam around the lifeguard block, I hope this isn't overkill. Also, the nylon cover is a dark blue, can anyone recommend a bright spray paint that will adhere (permanently) to industrial grade polyester? Judging by the condition of my dad's and grandfathers shirts from the 60's and 70's this float should last forever. I suppose, if anyone is willing to beg for an old bandolier float from your local pool I could show you a picture of mine, fellow cheapskates unite! Thanks for any provided advice... Phil Huck huck_at_mhd1.moorhead.msus.edu (list) thekayaker_at_yahoo.com (off-list) thekayaker_at_yahoo.com huck_at_mhd1.moorhead.msus.edu *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Nov 22 1999 - 11:06:28 PST
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