Decided I needed a solo to join the ranks with my tandem. Since I'm a bigger dude, I opted to increase the design to accommodate. Settled on a 5% increase from the original form size to get a max beam width of 30.5". I think I'll still keep the overall length at 16', or whatever 12" centers comes out to with the 5% increase for stem forms.

I re-used the forms from my tandem build from a few years back. The tumblehome on this design is not near as drastic as the previous build, but still looks sexy. The goal is to have this build done by June in case my planned trip turns into a solo.

I'll attach some pictures once I remember how to use the feature. I tore apart my strongback after the last build. Not sure if I'll try to assemble it again, or just build a new one. I do plan on making a cool accent design for this one and going to go stapleless since I have the time.

Looking forward to following your build. Thanks for including us!

Hey man,

Yes, please post as you move along.
Stapleless is a sign of craftsmanship. A bit more work but makes a better canoe.
Aspen makes a nice white color for accent and dark red cedar is good for dark.

Have fun!
Tom

Great start ! Always fun to see a modified build !

Tom ( tumblehome) ,states that "Stapleless makes a better canoe."
I'm curious what makes it better ?

Nearly all plug makers, for commercial canoes, use staples. One to save time, and two, to keep the strips true to the forms.

I have built canoes both ways, and feel Stapleless, is more of a cosmetic thing, not an improvement as to the quality of a canoe.
Just my experience !

Jim

Hi Jim,
My reasoning for stapless construction is in my previous post.
Tom

OK . Tom
So taking more time to do something makes it better.

I was looking for, just how Stapleless, is better than a hull built with staples.
I actually gave two reasons why it's not .
I guess we can agree to disagree.
Anyway.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year !

Jim

Since I'm updating this thread in real time, the progress will be slow. Due to holidays and such I've had some delays with the start.

I did end up having to build a new strongback. I salvaged just under half the wood from my previous one. I threw the stations up to get a feel for the build. Will still need to true the center line before fully securing.

May be a bit before another update, need to source and mill my cedar still.

Hi Jason.
If you get a chance, stop at JAX, in Ames. They have my last build there for sale. It's a 38 Spl. shortened, basically a Widened Merlin.

Jim