Skin and Frame Kayak Method

1. Start with two pieces of gun whale skin which are  symmetrically cut.
2. Both ends of the pieces are cut similarly so they meet exactly when joined up.
3. The extremities of the pieces are attached and the shape of the boat is set by placing wooden planks in between the pieces.
4. Deck supports made of wood are made and placed. Some of them have special functions and need to be designed accordingly: foot brace, back-support and two should be curved to facilitate entry.
5. These supports are attached to the gun whale pieces.
6. Holes are made in the gun whale pieces for insertion of ribs.
7. Ribs are made from planks. These should be of the same length as the breadth of the pieces.
8. They are bent and inserted into the assembled pieces and attached.
9. Attach keel piece to the ribs.
10. This structure can be covered with skin of any material.
11. A cockpit cover can be made and sewed to the skin.
12. Paint the skin in order to keep water out once the kayak hits the lake, sea, or ocean.
13. Complete a trial in an actual body of water to insure your kayak is indeed water proof.

The time-taken to build such a boat is around 100 hours. It weighs less than 40 lbs and total cost is $200

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