
TIPS AND TOOLS

SHARING KNOWLEDGE IN THE BOAT-BUILDING COMMUNITY
Below are some helpful downloads for tools we use in the shop every day.
IF you are building skin on frame and or a wood cored composite boat from one of our kayak kits we are sure they will be of use to you too.
The Balance Board
The Balance board is a fun project to build and even more fun to use. It is a great way to strengthen your core and improve your balance for kayaking. Here you can download a free plan and building guide for the construction of this great tool.

MEASURING JIG
Here you can download a free blueprint for making a handy radius checking gauge from a scrap piece of wood. Print the PDF and use it as a template to make your tool.

The Greenland Paddle
Considering buying or carving a Greenland Paddle? Here you can download a free guide to Greenland Paddle design based on desired features of performance.
MARKING JIG
Here you can download a free blueprint for a handy marking jig. This tool helps you layout lines parallel to a surface. It is extremely helpful for fairing the chines, gunwales, laying out masking lines for painting, etc... and can be made from scrap plywood.

WEST SYSTEMS CALCULATOR
Our Epoxy of choice for kit construction is West System. Often when building a kayak it is necessary to use only small amounts of epoxy, or other times it is necessary to use a large volume in proportion to the amount of fiberglass used. This tool gives values for both amount of resin and hardener needed based on a weight of fiberglass. Page 2 includes a table for quick reference while working in the shop. Links to the material data sheets for West System 206 and 207 hardeners are included on page 3.
Don't see what your looking for? Let us know what you want to see on this section of our website.
