Help

[TimClark]

Well, I'm 14 and I have always wanted to design boats. But I don't know where to start with learning the equations and other things. I just draw the boats but don't know what to do. I want to be able to design my own dinghy and then I am planning on building it and then moving up from there. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Tim

[Skippy]

TimClark: I want to be able to design my own dinghy and then I am planning on building it and then moving up from there.

Very wise. That's an excellent way to start. You can build a small rowboat with just one 4'x8' sheet of plywood, some furring stock, and miscellaneous small pieces. Or a faster but harder one with two sheets. It's fun trying to see how much boat you can squish into the amount of space you have.

Here are some links:
The Rules
Ted Brewer's boat design primer
A boatbuilding school
Lots of free small-boat plans

And books:

Phil Bolger        Boats with an Open Mind
Dave Gerr          The Nature of Boats
Ted Brewer         Understanding Boat Design
John Teal          How to Design a Boat
Robert Steward     Boatbuilding Manual

[marshmat]

Welcome aboard, Tim!

Small row/sail is definitely a good way to start. The books Skippy mentions are pretty standard resources (I'm a Bolger fan myself, the Bolger/Payson books got me hooked and building my first boat). Designing a small row/sail boat is definitely within the abilities of a keen student; it's a challenge, but one you can probably conquer with a bit of reading and practice. Cardboard models are extremely helpful in visualizing your ideas, they don't need to be big or elaborate to give you some idea how your drawings might come together. Have fun, and keep us posted!

[TimClark]

I'm planning on building my own Jimmy Skiff. I am gonna modify the basic shape and design to fit me and what I'll be using it for. Thanks.

Tim

[TimClark]

Skippy, that link from the high school website is actually the high school in the next town over from me. If only I went there....

Tim