The cut kits have arrived and been distributed to the four builders. Sadly there is no documentation as this is my first go but the kits look impressive, (If I don’t say so myself).

I have found that the sheets when cut into so many parts are flimsy and difficult to manage, we had to slide an uncut sheet under them to allow us to move them. They all came on a pellet in no specific order and the effor we went to to mark each sheet with names and sheet numbers was lost on the laser cutter, perhaps we should have spent more time disscussing our concept with them. Always next time.

The idea I had to laser cut 20mm holes in the top deck for rigging and under the deck glue laser cut disc stacked to form a small cup that houses a stainless pin to secure ropes and bungy cord to seams like a winner,  though I must admit I feel this inital version has the outer diameter a tad too small and the parts are very fine, the next version will incorperate thicker walls.

I have also found the finger joint to be fragile when removed from the sheet, the concept is sound but we need to ensure only whole fingers are on the edges we have some slim halves on this version that may be difficult to work with. More opertunity for an improved mark II. This method is far better than the old scarf or but joint styles as it ensures the lines are not lost, and the original length and thickness are a given. (perhaps thats just my lack of skill with skarf joints)

The process is slow the first step is to lay out all the lengths and join them in preperation for the second step stitching together with zip ties (cable ties to some) we spent a lot of time to ensure the holes all line up and were spaced evenly along the join lines, I hope this will force the hull into a true and straight final shape. I cant wait to test the theroy…….

Sorry for no photo’s in this post my macro zoom pic’s of the deck componets are blury and not suitable. I will retake and post soon.

Keep on Kayaking…….

MikeS