This first thing we need to do is make sure the stem and the hood ends are exactly perpendicular to the center of the boat. So we compare the angle from the planking on each side and then plane down whichever side is higher until the angle becomes exactly the same on both sides. Another very important step for us at this time is to create a series of guides that will help us locate the center of the stem after we have our laminate pile in position. So we cut out several small guides out of plywood and leave enough room for them to fit over the laminates. Before we get glueing our stem cap together we're going to give each laminate a quick sanding. We're then going to use a chip brush with the bristles cut off about midway through and apply TotalBoat 2:1 High Performance Epoxy to each laminate. We're also going to add some thickened epoxy to each laminate once they have had a little time to soak up the resin. Then we need to do the same thing to the stem and the hood ends because that's end grain and that will really soak up some resin. Once everything is covered in resin we're going to bring our stack of laminates over to the boat and fasten it into place at the bottom and then wrap it around to the top of the stem. We actually put a few more laminates on the pile than we needed just to help pull the different layers down in between the fastenings so we don't get a pillowing effect as the resin drys. We will also drill the hole through the laminates with a larger bit so that the screw doesn't grab and pull the layers apart. Once the glue dries we can then remove the screws and whittle the stem down with an electric and hand plane until it's flush with the planking.