Progress!

Put the sheerstrake on and it didn't look right. I cut it too wide. I was able to cut it down after it was glued on. (fun!) Looks much better now. This is probably the steepest learning curve I've ever had on any subject. I really appreciate everyone's input and encouragement!

thanks y'all!
flydog

 

Looking good flydog. With the sheer being so visually critical to overall aestetics, I'd bet it took some time to "get it right".

My compliments on a tidy (in comparison to mine) shop!

When to do hope to have her afloat?

Take care.

TGoz

 

Thanks, TIMZOZ.
I plan to launch in the early spring.

 

How big is your boat flydog? It looks to be about 18 foot from the pic? I've got a frame of a similar sized boat and am planning on finishing it and would love to read more about your project - as well as more pics if you have any.

 

Slow Progress

My boat is a 12 foot lapstrake sailing dinghy. The material is 6mm marine-grade plywood. It is built on a mold system designed by John Brooks at brooksboats.com. If your boat already has a frame, it might be designed for carvel planking. I am no expert here, a novice at best. This is my first boat. There are many authors and boatbuilders that have addressed the subject. The only two that I have read are: Building Small Wooden Boats by Greg Rossell, and Building Small Lapstrake Wooden Boats by John Brooks. I use the second one as a building guide exclusively. If you decide to buy these books, look for them on Amazon.com. They would be cheaper than the official websites. I would be happy to keep in touch and compare notes.

flydog

 

Correction

In my last post I gave an incorrect web address. It should be brooksboats.net.

flydog

 

Thanks flydog, I appreciate the advice. Why do you say carvel planking is better for a boat that already has a frame? (honest question, not doubting you).

Do you have anymore photos of your boat?

 

Carvel vs Lapstrake

I am not an athority here. I acannot say which method of planking is best. I have only done one boat ( I have yet to finish). What I am saying is that carvel is built over frames that are put in place first. Lapstrake or clinker-built, is molded over distinctly shaped molds, then frames and or half frames are put in later to strengthen the boat. Here is a pic of my boat molds:

flydog

 

For amateur builders, lapstrake is easier, faster, and can yield a much lighter boat. I'm referring to glued lapstrake not rivet and burr methods. The down side of lapstrake is that the boat is a little noisier and more difficult to sand and paint. The laps do tend to hold the spray down somewhat,when the going is lumpy.

Flydog; it looks like you are doing a first class job. Keep up the good work.