Building the ChickadeeThe Chickadee is built from 3½ sheets of 5 mm Okoume plywood and one of 4 mm. One starts by cutting out the central spine; the keelson and king plank are glued on to it, also the centerboard case, and mast step support.The frames are made and fitted into the spine rather like plywood dinosaur models. The unit is fitted onto a jig, stringers notched in, and the sides and bottom panels added. After turning the hull right side up, the interior is sealed with epoxy resin. Stringers and decking follow, including the unique concave cockpit decking. Rub rails, coaming and foils complete the woodwork; after sanding and sealing, the hull is varnished. Fitting out, mast and rigging follow, and the sails hoisted. You are ready to go sailing your attractive and exciting creation in only 200 - 250 hours! |
