Photos of castletownshend Ettes we have built and restored

To see the pictures enlarged click: areckardtferreira's photostream on Flickr.

Half Models of Castletownshend Ette

Add caption

Ever since we heard about half models at IBTC during our boatbuilding training, we've been talking about making some of our favourite boats. It's a really interesting process that definitely shows up flaws in the lines plan. For instance, we always found problems around station 4 during planking the real sized ettes. We were able to correct our lines plan from the finished half models.

This particular model will be a perpetual trophy for the overall winner of the Ette class at the Baltimore Wooden Boat festival.
See Sailing The Ettes on facebook for more info on events .

Visit to Norwegian Boatbuilding Museum

In October 2010, Anke worked at the Hardanger Fartoyvernsenter, a living boatbuilding museum in Norway, for two weeks. It was a Leonardo mobility work placement organised by the Crafts Council of Ireland. During her visit, she had the opportunity to work with ropemakers, shipbuilders, boatbuilders and youth workers.  She will be giving a slideshow and talk about this amazing experience at Meitheal Mara at 12:30pm on February 24th.

"Pirouette"

Pirouette is ready to sail ! With her newly polished hull and repaired keel she will be a pleasure to sail.
Notice the beautiful new rudder we built for her in the foreground.

Hopefully we'll see her at the Baltimore Wooden Boat Festival ( 27th - 29th of May). There will be at least five "ettes " participating in this event. For more news and updates on events in the sailing season see "Sailing The Ettes" on facebook.

How we build a Castletownshend Ette

the Restoration of "Pirouette"

 We are progressing well with the restoration of "Pirouette" - number three of the original Castletownshend Ettes. She was built around 1940, larch planking on oak ribs. we have put in a new centreboard box and have completed extensive repair on the keel.

The Restoration of Happy Return

At the moment, and probably during the whole of 2011 we are restoring a Stella One Design, "Happy Return" built in 1961. The keel bolts have been replaced and all rotten planks have been replaced.

 With the help of willing volunteers, we have steamed in the ribs as well!