Boatbuilding Methods

Boatbuilding with Plywood

Plywood is one of the cheapest and easiest building materials, one that the average do-it-yourselfer is both familiar and comfortable with.

Boatbuilding with Stitch and Glue Plywood

This quick and easy boatbuilding method consists of plywood planking panels cut to shape from full-size patterns which are "stitched" and "glued" together at the seams.

Cold-Molded Boatbuilding

This method is utilized on round bilge hulls or hulls with compound shapes.

Boatbuilding with One-Off Fiberglass

Glen-L has done a great deal of research into the various options for "one-off" construction.

Boatbuilding with Steel & Aluminum

Steel is an excellent boatbuilding material, proven in use worldwide.

Steel Shrink-wrap

This admittedly low-tech and forgiving variation on steel boatbuilding is ideal for the short-handed do-it-yourself boatbuilder who can weld..

Strip Planking

Strip planking is a form of carvel planking. The hull is built over forms using strips of wood, edge-glued, and edge fastened together.

Boatbuilding Mahogany Runabouts

If you want a mahogany runabout that replicates boats of yesteryear, but don't want to pay the high price for a production rendition or restored antique, why not build it yourself?

Planking Classic Mahogany Runabouts

Discover how to make your own veneers & Planking Alternatives (including Cold-Molded Plywood).

Changing Plans

One reason for building your own boat is getting exactly the boat you want, which presumes finding a perfect stock plan - an often difficult if not impossible quest.

How To Fiberglass a Plywood Boat

Fiberglassing a boat using Poxy-Shield epoxy resin.

How to Use Full Size Patterns

Patterns on all but the smallest boats are given in half section; meaning only one half is shown.