On September 1, 2025 I began construction on my boat. To start I have to build the base box which will hold the forms that shape the hull. The pieces for the box are cut out of 9mm MDF, an inexpensive composite board similar to plywood. The shapes are cut using CNC routing. A computerized router that operates off of CAD drawings. I had a cabinet maker out of Rockford do this work for me. He cut up 11 sheets and delivered them to my garage. Over the next 3 days for a total of 7 hours I put the lego set together. See the results on the gallery page.
On Sept 4 I met with the local boat builder, Lars Bergersen of Bergersen Boat Co. (http://bergersenboatco.com) to discuss and procure some of the hardwoods I’ll need to proceed. I’ll be using Sapele, an African wood similar to Mahogany, known for its striking appearance and strength for the next few steps of the build. I’ll need to mill the hog (a 15′ board under the keel), the keel, the transom, the apron (part of the bow construction) and the knees, which will support the apron and the transom. Lars has a plentiful stock of Sapele, so he will supply me with what I need and get me going. I’m hoping to have the wood sometime next week. Stay tuned for my next steps!