constructive system (cheap) for a cata

[garrobito]

Hi everybody!
I'm looking for a cheap and faster constructive system for my catamaran 25".
What do you think?? west system?? or strip plank???
I don't have a lot of experience in construction boat, but have a lot of entusiatic and know about tools.
thanks you!

[terhohalme]

Hello Miguel,

I build this 7 m, 350 kg proa in 400 hours. The structure is plywood with glass-epoxy tapings.

[gonzo]

Cheap and fast? A flat bottom plywood boat will give you that.

[terhohalme]

Yes, cheap and fast to construct. Wasn't that the question?

Terho

[garrobito]

The question is... about constructive system.
Do you know some about that??
Or just waste my time??

[terhohalme]

If you are so in a hurry, you propably haven't got the time to have a look in here:

http://kotisivu.mtv3.fi/terho.halme/

The fastest system to make the boat is from plywood with stitch & glue method. If the boat is designed correctly, you even don't need any mold to assemble her.

If you want round corners to your boat, use stips.

West system is OK. Do you already have the book Gougeon Brothers in Boat Construction? If not, have it.

Terho

[gonzo]

I find that a framed hull is about as fast to build as a stich glued. The exception is if a designer makes an accurate set of patterns for the stich and glue. I can build a flat bottom boat in about two days. That includes thwarts, mast , rudder and centerboard. Of course the finish is like a work boat. However, to experiment and learn, is a mistake to look for a perfect finish. Many people get discouraged that way. The details get in the way of the original idea; which is to go floating. Use AC plywood, spruce or fir lumber from the building supply store, ss deck screws and exterior grade liquid nails. Butt block the panels and glass over them and all the chines, sheer, bow and stern seams. Polyester with mat works OK. Paint everything and put it in the water. I assure you that there will be many things you'll want to change. The advantage is that the expensive to buy things: hardware, sails, rigging ,etc. can be transfered to a new hull. This is a cheap way to experiment and learn.

[Thunderhead19]

Stitch and glue is the ticket. I prefer to use internal framing (just a couple) anyway to stabilize the shape. Plank on frame is quick too, but a tweak heavier.

[newo eloc]

[IMG]

I designed and built this cat in what I consider to be the cheapest,quickest and most importantly the lightest per $ rate. It's pointless having a heavy cat me thinks. Glass over ply strip's then removed the ply. The construction method determines the design ,the materials you use determines the construction method ,Your $'s determines everything it's a viscious circle. I have spent a fortune trying to prove that a poor person can design and build and then sail his or her own dream.