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> i am considering building a skin on frame boat. I have read Putz's
> (sp?)book, and various online articles. i would really like to know how
> much I could expect to spend to get a decent boat, and the
> advantages/disadvantages of various materials and methods (factoring in
> cost). I know that is quite alot to ask, and I am doing as much research
> as I can on my own, but any feedback will be appreciated. I have also read
> reference to an article onthis type of project in Sea Kayaker magazine.
> Does anyone know the issue? Are there any other articles I should seek
> out.
> Thanks again Quent
The most recently completed one I know of was completed by Mike Hanks for about $250 US. /that is what Putz estimates in his book. Mike commented that he had lots of leftovers and could make a second one for less. I think that by shopping for the best deals on everything you might be able to do this for as little as $160 US.
The biggest cost of reusable materials is the money spent for plywood for the building forms. You make those once and you can reuse them many times. If you are making several boats then you can share the costs on these. If not, then try to get the best deal on material for making these. Putz builds from forms that are about 30 to 40 inches high. That uses a lot of plywood for each form. I have posted two lists of numbers that recalculate Putz's design, so as to make forms that are under 24 inches tall. The hull shape is identical, but the extra plywood is removed from these, so they should save you $20 or so.
Pine is a nice, easy to fine, and inexpensive wood. You can buy long pieces suitable for this boat at almost any lumber store that handles materials for home construction. Spruce, fir and cedar are frequently available, too, and the price is about the same as pine. Don't worry about trying to buy perfectly clear planks of wood. Get a reasonably decent 2x12. After you rip it into strips, pick the best ones for the long strips for your boat, and the others you cut to short lengths for the trestling or bridgework that braces things.
Check some of the previous posts for more information and spend a few evenings online reading them. Then go out and have a darn good time putting together a pretty boat.
Best of luck to you on this project. Take some pictures as the work progresses.
Paul G. Jacobson
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Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
