Fore hatch

[Derek]

I know, the stripping's not symmetrical, but with limited power tools, it's about the best I can get.

[Guest Anonymous]

Derek,

Symmetrical would look machine/production line made anyway, in my book. You did a very nice job, it looks real nice. Now, being the nosey one I am...give us the specs guy....wood used, types of joints, glues, finishing techniques etc. You wouldn't think we would let you just post a photo and leave it at that. Be proud of your work and let us in on the news...

So many builders do such nice work and then we always must ask a zillion questions...Inquiring minds want to know...

Cheers,

Bill

[Bill]

That was me above...

forgot to log in ....

[Derek]

Bill, frame was mahogany, 1/4' stripping was white cedar and redwood (curtesy(sp?) Capt. Jake).

All joints epoxied together (butt joints w/ dowels), strips epoxied inplace also. So far 2 coats epoxy on it. Will continue with multiple coats of varnish.

Had to take a break from the 'to do's' of the boat and have some fun with finish work.

The hatch is actually flat, in contrast to Stevenson's plans showing a 1/2" rise to the center. We'll see how it fairs.

Actually got the concept from seeing Jake's boat, my hatch is almost identical to his.

The big project is going to be the cabin hatch, as I am planning on stripping that as well, but incorporating an eight-pointed compass inlay into it. Will have to get me one of those Japanese wood saws me thinks.

[Bill]

Thanks for the specs....make sure you load up on the varnish, the epoxy has NO, UV protection, and being on the deck, would kill it! I love the idea of inlay on the cabin hatch and have tried to research how to pull it off. I have never done inlay myself and had the same idea. I won't bother with the "real deal" until I do have a decent looking attempt. There are a few methods I guess. One thing I will throw in though, take it as my own opinion, with a grain of salt...think beyond, or differently than the compass..It's been done so many times ( I think it has outlived it's traditional look), it's done because all the lines are so straight and easy to cut and it can look like a, well, first time in-lay job, even if you pull it off and it looks good. I was going to jump into a graphics program and attempt to make some whale(s) designs. Find something you can use/alter that looks cool but isn't something you'll see somewhere else. I think the compass rosette looks like clip-art in any form these days. Thats just my opinion though. You have a nice hatch, and have shown some skill, don't rush through the next piece. Be original, take your time, and master your craft! You will be glad you did...

Just my 2 cents,

Bill

[Derek]

Here's one that I found similar to what I am thinking. I thik this was from one of Devlin's boats. I thought it somewhat appropriate as my boats name will be "True North". But I am always trying to think of alternatives and keeping eyes open for ideas. Actually was considering doing this same design in concrete (colored) in our driveway when I finally get to finishing that.

[Craig]

Nice derek, very nice!

[capt jake]

A pattern and a router are probably hte wya to go with an inlay of this type. If you were to cut clear thorugh the stipping and attempt an insert, the curve won't come out fair.

I also have thought about the same thing (inlay); I would set up a pattern and cut it less than half depth. Then fit in the inlay pieces with a quick curing glue.

Derek, not long from now, I should be moved and 'partially' set up. You are welcome to come and use some of the tools, if it will help.

[Derek]

Thanks Jake. I know you and I have discussed this inlay process a few times and when I finally get to doing the cabin hatch, I'm sure we'll be talking about it again!