I have long wanted to build a strip canoe. Unfortunately I can find no clubs or other human resources in my area for mentorship. My question is do any of you with experience think it possible for someone with wood working experience to build one on their own. I have bought 2 books on the subject and found some you tube videos.

Dusty

There is a wealth of information on the net, that is good ! An experienced builder near by, willing to help, is a great asset !

A couple of my favorite, online sources, besides right here are.


http://www.canoetripping.net/forums/
Some great build threads there !
You will need to join this Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/486558078049296/

This is a great time of year to get started ! Picking plans and gathering materials. I always waited until warmer weather to start actually building, as I didn't have a heated space to work in.
Good Luck ! I hope to see some build posts from you !

Jim

My first three boats were built with very few instructional resources, but they turned out great. Actually, the first was OK, the second pretty nice and the third achieved the standard I was reaching for. Then Canoecraft was published and it changed my world.

Woodworking skills are mainly useful for preparing the materials and molds and finishing. All the stuff in between is new. Probably the most difficult part is putting on the fiberglass and epoxy resin. Its not that it is difficult, just a big step with no experience. That process is very well described in many resources. I suggest experimenting with the glass and resin on some small panels before glassing the hull. Maybe make a box or a paddle with fiberglassed blades.

Books and videos are great. user forums for questions. People are very helpful.

As much as we wish our first boat to be perfect, it never is. It will however be very pretty and fun to paddle. The build process is exciting and satisfying through all the stages.

When I used to teach this topic our line was, "If you've built a bird house, you're over qualified". It's not a difficult endeavor, just time consuming. Before you are half done you'll be saying, "when I build the next one I'm gonna.....".

I just need to commit and do this. I have dreamed about it for several years now. On a plus my youngest son is excited to help. This will double as a way to spend more time with my son and grandsons. I would like to start with an easier boat, Is there one you would suggest I look into?

It seems we all started building a tandem. A solo will cost less, and go together quicker, not to mention require less building area.
I'd suggest a hull without much Tumblehome.
I would also bead and cove my strips. This will help assemble, like a Lincoln log set. The strips Fit together. No hand beveling required.
Definitely cut your own strips. This will save a ton of money. Use a Skilsaw to cut the strips, this works great for your gunnels also. A method I learned from the Minnesota Canoe Assc. builders.
You will learn a lot not only about building a canoe, but about yourself !
You can do it !

Jim

Check out “canoe craft” by Ted moores. This is a how-to from beginning to end

Grizzlyman: "Check out “canoe craft” by Ted moores. This is a how-to from beginning to end"

Thank you. I do have that book and Building A Strip Canoe by Gil Gilpatrick. Canoe Craft seems to be more detailed but both have a ton of info.

Went with the wabnaki. just turned her over today to start the inside work.

Looks great Dusty !
Keep at it, and you may have it in the water by this Fall !

Jim

A Tip. Keep the center form strapped in, It will greatly help maintain the shape of the hull.
I sand a half at a time, then pull the form and finish sanding the middle.
Jim

1JimD: " A Tip. Keep the center form strapped in, It will greatly help maintain the shape of the hull.
I sand a half at a time, then pull the form and finish sanding the middle.
Jim"

Thank You. I was going to ask you what I should do there. I will strap back in.