April 2009 Newsletter

I have started sending out periodical newsletters through Constant Contact. Here is a copy of the first issues. Actually it is the second issue of my newsletter because I had sent one out via standard mail previous.

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IN THIS ISSUE New Book New Website Shop Tips Strip Building Workshop Guillemot Kayaks Newsletter   Dear Reader, It has been a busy winter for me here in Groton. My new book is about to be released, I've just about finished my new workshop, I've upgraded my website, and I'm still teach classes and preparing new boats to bring to shows.   The New Book is Done! I just received a couple cases of the new book directly from the printer. It looks great. I am now accepting and shipping orders. "Building Strip-Planked Boats" picks up where "The Strip-Built Sea Kayak" left off, including my latest techniques to turn a pile of thin strips into a rugged, practical, beautiful boat. Instead of sticking to just kayaks, I have included a dinghy, a canoe as well as the inevitable kayak. It contains information for the first time builder as well as techniques to take the experienced builder to the next level. I'm excited to see it, I've put a lot of time and effort into this book and I think you will like it. New Website My old website configuration was getting a little long in the tooth. I found people were having a hard time finding things and I have to admit it was a little disorganized. Take a look at the new website, where you will find a blog, and updated gallery of boats (including the ability to post your own pictures), and an improved product catalog. Probably the most interesting part of the blog is I'm using it to post my latest ideas about building techniques. Shop Tips: Trimming Strips to a Line There are often situations where you need to trim a group of strips to follow a line, such as a chine or keel line. You could start by eye-balling the taper on each strip and hoping when you have finished installing them all that you have a smooth, fair line or, you could install a temporary strip then fit each strip one-at-a-time against that strip, but the easiest is to start by not doing any special fitting. Install all the strips in the area, with them over-hanging the desired line. Then draw the line where you want to trim, cut just above that line with a saw and then trim down to the line with a plane. The first trick is to establish a smooth, fair line. Some plans will include reference lines on the form patterns to help define where the line is. For example if you are trimming to a keel line, the plans may include a center line on the forms. Otherwise you can just identify an angle in the shape, such as a chine that you will be working on. Read More   Strip Building Workshop Do you prefer seeing something done before you are ready to give it a try yourself? This one day workshop will give you the chance to see the process from stripping through fiberglassing first hand. You will have a chance to ask questions, get your hands a little dirty, and witness how the whole thing is done. The class is in the workshops of the Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking. They will handle all registration. If you would like to schedule a workshop or boatbuilding presentation in your area, please contact me. More Information Date: May 2, 2009  9:00am to 5:00pm Location: Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking, Manchester, CT Price: $120 New Plans: Matunuck Surf Kayak I know some people have been waiting a long time, but the plans for the Matunuck Surf Kayak are now available. This kayak is specifically designed for playing on surf breaks. It is much like a surf board that you sit inside. The plans include a complete instruction manual published by Chesapeake Light Craft.   Find out more about the Matunuck Surf Kayak Price: $85 New Plans: Sea Island Sport The Sea Island Sport is great little sit on top kayak suitable for fishing or casual paddling. It has an efficient, easy to paddle shape, and a roomy, comfortable seating area that lets your legs stay unencumbered. This stitch and glue design includes a full instruction manual published by Chesapeake Light Craft.   Find out more about the Sea Island Sport Price: $99 I have been designing kayaks and other small boats for over 20 years. I take pride in being an enthusiastic user of my boats, going out all year long even during New England's cold winter, so I know what works and what doesn't in real, practical terms. A lot of people have theories on how boats should be designed and built, we have on-the-water experience using  what we make and can stand by our product with confidence.   Sincerely,   Nick Schade Guillemot Kayaks

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