I've got the bug!

[bryanredfish]

OK, I've been so impressed with all these homemade boats that I'm going to give it a whirl. As I have no experience with woodworking or fiberglassing, would you suggest I start with a basic canoe, or something as easy? It looks like the XF-20 from Bateau would be what fits my needs the most: www.bateau.com/plans/power/XF20.php3<br /><br /> Any advice for a novice/beginner would be greatly appreciated! Thanks much.

 

[crab bait]

Re: I've got the bug!

start out with a boat that you can tackle & finish... major keyword 'FINISH '.. an pick a boat that you can use..but heck,, anyone can use a conoe... <br /><br />a good starter is the 'six hour canoe' by tiller publishing .. they're on the web.. <br />i have the plans, myself but never built one.. a friend of mine has... <br /><br />it's really a very pretty & very stable craft...an very easy to build as the name applies.. but you should call it the six WEEK conoe..<br /><br />glen-l marine .com has very good books an videos on the subject includin' buildin' & glassin' an stuff.. <br /><br />knowledge is priceless... good luck

 

[snapperbait]

Re: I've got the bug!

Yep... I've got the bug too, but got too many other "Projects" in the works to start another...<br /><br />Like Crabby says "pick one you can FINISH"... Stich & Glue looks like the way to go to me... <br /><br />Canoes are good, a dinghy or a rowboat would also be good for starters... Have fun...

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: I've got the bug!

Bryan,<br />Ditto...what they said. Only check out these sites too:<br />www.gatorboats.com (one of my favs)<br />www.duckworksmagazine.com<br />When I get my old antique outboards done this spring, I'm going to do either a jonsboat or a simple 2-man skiff...for a starter. Lord knows where I'll end up with this. Good luck and post pix along the way and when you're done.

 

[ShawnQ]

Re: I've got the bug!

I'm ordering the plans to the PH18 from www.bateau.com on Monday, if all goes well.<br /><br />I have never built a boat..but it doesn't worry me. I've used fiberglass several times in model boats (remote controls), and they use the same type of construction...just a whole lot bigger! A friend of mine, and myself, are going to go in half on the costs (college students), and hope to have it done by the end of the year...<br /><br />Now I just need to finish my ford mustang so I have room for the boat!

 

[bryanredfish]

Re: I've got the bug!

Thanks for all the input. You shoulda seen the reaction on my wifes face when I told her about my new venture! At any rate, I'm going to build the canoe, and if all goes well, the Flat on Bateaus. I enjoy seeing the pictures of the boats in progress.