Where to find net dip?

[jim252]

Hi all, first post here...

I've struck out trying to get some net dip for my parceled and served rigging. The sources I found only had it in large (5 gal. and up) quantities, except for one, Fitec Fishing, which has gallon size containers, but they have not (so far) responded to my inquiry.

I would have thought Fisheries Supply would carry some, but no dice.

Any advice much appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

[Ian McColgin]

Wooden boat types make slush from most anything mixed promiscously together - old varnish, some oil (linseed not expensive tung), turps.
G'luck

[dugout]

You might try Mike Keller. Most of the pot or net dips have anti-fouling properties. This may be an issue or not.
http://www.mikekellerltd.com

[jim252]

Thanks folks...

I've been using a mix of turpentine, boiled linseed oil, pine tar and black paint, and was having trouble finding a mix ratio that would dry well, and not rub off on hands, sails, dogs, etc. Thought I would give the net dip idea from the book a try.

Checked with the Keller place, and the dip they sell does seem to have some anti-fouling in it... probably more chemicals than I really need.

I'll keep looking for a net dip source, and if anything turns up, I'll report back.

[benz]

Try splashing some Japan drier in as well. I've been experimenting with smelly recipes for a project at work, and the best so far was tar, linseed and shellac, which has a drying agent in it. Experimenting with Japan drier too, but no definite results yet. It seems time is a great help, since marline tarred last season is nice and hard. Too bad it needs a re-do.

[Ian McColgin]

A little Japan dryer can't hurt. I've never tried adding shellack and did not know it was compatable with tar and oil. Varnish is and old varnish has no other use. Makes for a nice hard finish with the turps carrying the oil more into the siezing's fibres.

Many of the old slushes that had no varnish do indeed get messy, especially on a hot day.

I'd still not use net dip and if you don't have old stuff, experiment with the cheapest traditional marine varnish you can find.

[jim252]

Added some Japan drier... made a noticeable difference.

Did all the rigging at once and wow, does that brew stink. (All my rigging is detached and draped over sawhorses in my backyard greenhouse. Great place to work when it's raining, but a little lacking in ventilation compared to outside.)

I'll try some varnish with the next batch, for the bobstay and whisker stays (or bowsprit shrouds, or whatever the heck they are), and lifelines.