Shellback Dinghy Help Needed

[ScottM]

I've run into a bit of a snag in the construction of my Shellback. I'm using the plans from WoodenBoat, in conjuction with the book. My problem is with the laminated inner/outer stems. As per the plans and book, I got 14 pieces of fir milled out at 1/8" x 1 3/4" x 42", and made the laminating jig. BUT that amount only takes into account the INNER stem (laminated thickness to be 1 3/4". So where is the outer stem supposed to come from? Am I going to need 4 more strips, or is layup process with the epoxy going to give me the extra 1/2" thickness I need for the outer stem?

Anyone who knows about this, I need your help, please!

[Willin']

Scott,

I built one a few years back from the plans and using the 3 part article in WB. If I read you correctly, you'll definitely need to rip up some more strips for the outer stem. They are 2 separate pieces that can be layed up together in the mold if you separate the inner and outer stem with some non epoxy adhesive material. I used packing tape to do this. I also lined all of the molds with it as to allow the planks and midships frame to release easily from the molds.

It doesn't hurt to add an extra strip or two to the stem anyway, leaving you a little wiggle room when it comes time to plane the rabbet bevel. Not a very professional attitude, I admit, but it's easier to remove excess material if needed than to add on more later.

BTW, if you need professional advice, call Eric Dow's shop in Brooklin. The guys there are happy to offer advice, and that's straight from the horse's mouth.

Hope you enjoy your project. Don't stress:)

Cheers,

Mark

[ScottM]

Thanks Mark, I figured it out - for some reason my math was off. Lesson #42 - never measure from the plan drawings - literally. Once I actually stacked them all together they came out to the right thickness - well...off by an 1/8, but I'm willing to let that one slide. Do you have any pictures of your Shellback you can post? I'd like to see a finished product (besides the one in the book). There was one at the show this past weekend. I'm really excited to get this thing in the water!

Cheers,