Building a Cedar-Strip Canoe

12- Gunwales and Decks -- 2/5/01 - 2/8/01

2/5-- More on clamps...A couple of people asked what these are. ABS (or PVC) pipe makes a great spring clamp. An affordable alternative to c-clamps. I got the idea from Chesapeake Light Craft's site. (see "cheap clamps")
One note: For a canoe you'll want to beef the clamps up a bit. I found the 1.5" width to be a little weak for canoe work. I think 2" or even 2.5" with a narrowish slot would have worked better for pulling the gunwale tight against the hull. I made it work by alternating c-clamps and these plastic ones.

2/7-- A view of the inner gunwales with the deck installed.

2/8-- The stern deck is cherry with walnut trim. The inner gunwales are ash & mahogany. I left an opening at the end as a drain. The sharp point will be filled with a small cherry and walnut piece leaving an oval hole.

<< Back Next>>