Introduction to Boatbuilding
Building the Skerrieskiff 15
- BILL THOMAS — June 10–16
Tuition: $750
Note: This is a six-day course ending Saturday Afternoon.
There are many individuals out there who have decided that they would like to build their very own boat but don’t know how to get started. Many first-time builders have run into problems understanding the process of what to do first and, as a result, soon get intimidated and the idea loses momentum. Bill Thomas, noted boatbuilder, furniture maker, and teacher, invites anyone interested in wooden boats and woodworking to join him in this six-day course focusing on the skills and techniques used in basic boatbuilding. No prior boatbuilding experience is required; simply a desire to learn. If you want to build a good-looking, simple sailing skiff, Bill can help you get started and guide you through the step-by-step procedures to taking on and completing such a project on your own.
Bill has chosen one of Ian Oughtred’s lovely designs, the Skerrieskiff 15, as the boat students will construct during the course. This beach cruiser offers a great compromise between rowing and sailing qualities. It’s also an excellent choice for someone considering building his or her first boat. We will be building a rowing version during the course. Using traditional boatbuilding methods, she is built of marine plywood over a strongback and moulds. As with any one-week building schedule, there will be plenty for students to do as we finish the boat. Making stems and station layout will be followed by the planking of the bottom and sides. Once the boat is removed from the Molds students will commence work on the breasthooks, quarter knees, inside frames, thwarts, and interior trim.
As the skiff takes shape through the week, Bill will lead discussions in small-craft design, selecting a suitable design for the amateur builder, setting up a one-man shop, proper hand and power tool usage, and much more. Whether you have a hankering for traditional skiff construction like the Sherrieskiff 15 or are simply looking for a perfect introduction to wooden boat construction, you will thoroughly enjoy this week.
Bill Thomas was outstanding. His people/teaching skills are as good as his woodworking/boatbuilding skills. The INTRODUCTION TO BOATBUILDING course was both informative and very enjoyable. 