This is the amazing backbone built by the enthusiastic participants of our recent four-day workshop. Using the drawings developed in November's Lofting Workshop, we explained how to lift patterns, shape and bevel moulds. Each student made several members of the backbone. As they fitted their pieces together, it became a great team effort. The excitement became tangible as everything came together and began to take shape.
The backbone is, of course, a replica of that old west cork 16ft clinker boat, which we pulled out of a hedge last spring and have since lofted. We have tried to keep as close as possible to the original.
The materials used were: oak for the stem, apron, keel, hog, transom knee and deadwood, and douglas fir for the transom.
It is now propped up, complete with moulds, ready to start planking.
Encouraged by the success of this one, we're already making preparations for our next workshop, which will reveal the techniques of
Clinker Planking.
It will take place on the 23- 25th February.