Deck template tips????

[mattinglyt]

Does anyone have any tips for making a template to cut out a deck board for my boat. I've tried to trace the sides w/ cardboard, but I'm having a hard time getting the contour correct.

Does anyone have any tips to get this done and get it done correct w/ the first cut? I don't want to waste the wood I bought. Thanks in advance for any tips.

 

[Rickairmedic]

Re: Deck template tips????

Matt remember the compass you used to draw circles with in school. Thats the easiest tool to use to get your cuts right you will need 3 pieces of cardboard 2 for the sides and one for the middle . Just place a piece on one side and use the compass to trace that side of the boats contour onto it . Then repeat for the other side . Then use the third piece to tie everything together and you have your template.


Rick

 

[5150abf]

Re: Deck template tips????

When I did mine I measured in 5-6 spots and marked the board then tied them together and cut it, doubt you will get it in one try though, in out in out, no need to go to the gym that day.

You actually want to make it a little big then work down to where you need it, if you go too small right out of the gate you have wasted your wood.

I noticed in your pic you have a support for the back but nothing up front, are you going to put something in?

I wouldn't reccomend that you just use the hul sides to hold that, alot of pressure in a direction it wasn't designed for, just a thought.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Deck template tips????

Slide the cardboard under the boat, just trace it.
Put the cardboard in the boat after cutting it and make adjustments.
Get it right then copy to wood.
keep it simple.

 

[mattinglyt]

Re: Deck template tips????

Keep It Simple, I'm trying to do, but I'll be damned if I cannot get it to be a smooth transition bewteen "compass" and cardboard. I've cut a piece of wooden down and put a marker on the end of it, but I'm having a hard time getting a "straight" line to cut on.

As far as support for the front and back, the support is there for both. The back will slide under the "stock" support and then the supports I installed w/ take care of the front. I plan on stopping the deck at the front most support because I'll be running some wires for the trolling motor and just to make it easier to cut out.

 

[Rickairmedic]

Re: Deck template tips????

Matt one other option for you that might be more stable for you lay a speed square on its side with 2 points against the side of the boat and hold your marker to the third point and move it along the side of the hull .


Rick