Basically, you have two different dimensions in a typical table of off sets; heights and half breadths. Each designer has their own way, some like to work their heights from a base line, others like to work away from the LWL. In either case these measurements (usually written in feet, inches and eighths of an inch). If from a base line, all the numbers will be above this line. If from a LWL then measurements under the LWL will be negative (-) and above the waterline will be marked positive (+). The half breadth measurements are from the centerline of the boat (when viewed from above) outward.
Most stations will have both a height and half breadth listed, though not necessarily. The bottom of a straight keel on a offset setup around a keel bottom base line will be 0-0-0 for example.
There are a few books on lofting alone, though the subject is covered in many books on boat construction, which also happen to have a bunch of other information that may also be useful to you. Try the book store here or your favorite book seller. Check the contents page for a chapter on lofting.
12-31-2006, 04:05 PM
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