The epoxy isn't the secret , its how we get it inside the gap between the blank and seat so expertly that is the secret. Until this class only my cat knew and she's not talking.
IMO in rodbuilding , the seat mounting is the most difficult thing to undo if you screw it up , thats why I wanted everyone to do it with me present. Guide layout is the "headiest" stuff. Takes a lot of playing around to optimize although getting something "good" is less difficult. Without a doubt , applying the thread finish at the end takes the most craftsmanship and is where many a fine build is turned into a mess. Decorative wraps serve no functional purpose fishing wise so you won't ruin the rod but you can write UGLY all over it if you do that wrong.
These seven guys are all pretty good so I have no doubt they will all successful complete a perfect build.
Number one lesson saturday was....
Do it perfect or do it over again! Never settle for just OK!