How to Build a Wood Dinghy
According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary online, a dinghy is a small boat propelled by ores or a sail. A dinghy, designed for recreational use in calm waters, is made to hold one or two passengers. It usually is made out of wood, but it can be finished with a wood sealer and then painted or stained. A dinghy can be purchased, but it also is possible for an individual to construct his own.
Things You'll Need
- dinghy kit
- electric drill
- wood epoxy glue
- wood clamps
- wood sealer
- wood paint or stain
- jig board
Instructions
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1
Log on to the Internet or visit a local boating store to research and view dinghy kits. Depending on the kit, a dinghy can be made in a variety of sizes. The CKD Boats website (See Reference 3) explains that due to the magnitude of measurements and angles involved in creating the correct boat shape, it is advisable to purchase a boat kit with precut wood.
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2
Purchase a kit, and lay out the wooden pieces. The Rifle Warrior website (See Reference 1) instructs the builder to lay a jig board on a flat and covered surface. Place the four portions of the keel on the jig board to begin forming the internal structure of the dinghy.
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3
Attach the hull to the four portions of the keel with epoxy glue. Once the glue is applied, secure metal clamps onto the keel and hull to hold the wood together until the glue dries. Attach the stringers, or strips of wood that make up the top edges of the dinghy, to the top sides of the keel. Hold everything in place with clamps.
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Stain and insert the dinghy seat before working on the body of the boat. Secure the sides of the dinghy to the stingers and keel by using the epoxy glue and clamps. Once the sides have dried, the bottom of the boat can be secured into place using glue and clamps.
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Apply stain to the inside of the dinghy to protect the wood. The CKD Boats website explains that most individuals also will either stain or paint the outside of the homemade dinghy. Apply a layer of wood sealer over the exterior of the dinghy before painting it.
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Apply wood stain to the outer surface of the boat if you choose not to paint It. Once the stain dries completely, apply sealer. After the sealer has dried the boat can be tested in the water.
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