Hi ya Peter
I suppose really, this is one of those questions which opens a can of worms, as every modeller has his favourite ways of doing things and favourite materials to use. So, to ask a Forum like this one (an open Forum) you will receive many varied answers because each and every one has their own preference. Really, the golden rule is, there is no right way/wrong way, right stuff/wrong stuff - So I think the real answer is - have a read through and see what fits your bill and try it. As an old friend used to say - suck it and see.
I am going to put a couple of examples on which I myself have used - Epoxy finishing resin by itself on the outside of a hull. I have used Epoxy resin with a very fine woven material (similar to what the aircraft modellers skin their model aircraft wings with). Also, polyester resin, with tissue matt.
Also, there is an example of where I have glued a prop tube in place using 2 minute - 2 part Epoxy resin. The only time I use a 2 part Epoxy resin (the stuff you buy in tubes) is when I am bonding 2 totally dis-similar materials together. Such as the brass tube to plywood.
1st image: ZEpoxy with woven wroven
2nd image: " epoxy by itself
3rd image: Prop tube 2 part epoxy
4th image: Polyester resin with tissue matting
Something to think about ; John