Frames

Since last post, I've also trimmed the sheer and gotten the last few butt blocks in at the ends where the small side splices are.  Gardner didn't mention blocks there, because they are so close to the ends and are supported by the gunwale and stem.  But he also intended this boat to be built by kids for immediate use and unspecified lifetime.  I just couldn't leave it that way, but I doubt he'd have disapproved of what I did. 

Got some frames in place today.  Per Gardner's instructions, there are 13 per side!  I definitely wanted them all becuase I reduced the side scantlings to 1/4 v. the 3/8 he specified (bottom is unmodified at 3/8).  Mine are a touch deeper, but also out of stock slightly narrower, so I think it washes out.  I also used a tapered frame, where his specified straight, and mine are equal depth at the narrow end, so I've added some "meat" at the fat end of the taper.  Wood glue and 4 ring nails per frame hold them on.

 He also specified that the frames just rest on the chine pieces.  Again though, kids were building this.  That would have been much simpler.  I had the time, so why not make em a bit pertier?  I've modified them to notch around the chine.  Per some good advice received from another Coot, I've not gone with a bottom frame.  Gardner didn't want them and they don't appear necessary.

Next post I'll show my frame layout jig I've been using.  It's been working well.  I can mark and cut all 13 frames in about one hour or so, and they all fit at least as well as the one in this photo.  Ran out of time today on frame 7 on the other side.  So 6 more to cut, then nail em in.  Should be done mid-day tomorrow, then I can move onto the seat risers. 

BTW, anyone in Portland area that is looking for boat fasteners - here's what I know (now):

1. Wink's has bronze screws and bronze ring nails in all necessary sizes.  Not cheap, but they have them.  They are NOT open on weekends.
2. If you need said hardware on weekends, you can get stainless ring nails via West Marine ($$$$$), and Parkrose Hardware apparently carries some SS, bronze, and copper ring nails, but didn't have my sizes in stock when I called.
3. Ordering all that hardware online is much cheaper, but the shipping seems to cost as much as the items, so buy more than you think you'll need, because you will need them, and the shipping for two orders just ain't worth it.  Then you end up driving around town on a weekend and shelling out 15$ for 30 SS ringnails at West Marine so you can take advantage of the one nice day we've had this winter...I'm just sayin....