“What’s in the Shop?” Wednesdays – November 27
Long time no blog.
But things have been crazy busy here at Cutwater Boatworks….which is a good thing…
Today’s “What’s in the Shop?” features a very rare 1946 Gar Wood 22.5′ utility: “Barnegat Belle.” Restored over a period of time, she made her debut at the 2007 ACBS International Show at Lake George.
Fresh varnish gleams next to a sanded area
The rough woodwork was done by Jim Murdock. The rest of the restoration was commission by owner Chris Johnson and done by Cutwater Boatworks. The engine, a Chrysler M-8 Royal, had been redone previously and was in storage until Chris was ready to complete the boat.
“Barnegat Belle” has consistently done well on the show circuit, winning a number of awards, the most recent of which was Best Restored at the 2013 St. Michaels show.
“Barnegat Belle” in the parade at the Clayton show
Chris has an extensive collection of boats, most of which he has had restored. He has decided to start thinning out that collection, so “Barnegat Belle” came to Cutwater Boatworks for a refresh of the exterior varnish. Varnish is a long and convoluted subject that we will explore in more depth at another time….but for this varnish work, we are using Epifanes Clear Varnish.
Epifanes Clear Varnish
Even with the heat on in the shop, and even with the miraculous leveling properties of Epifanes, it was difficult to get the varnish to lay down all the way. Epifanes EZ Flow was added – essentially, a chemical like Penetrol – to get the varnish to flow out all the way.
When the varnish is done, “Barnegat Belle” will be available for purchase to a discriminating collector. Truly a special boat, she will need a special owner that will care for her and preserve her rarity. Feel free to contact us if you feel you are that special person.